Cambrian Way

Starting at Cardiff Castle, the Cambrian Way quickly leaves the urban environment, transitioning through parkland and woodlands as it heads north. The route follows the River Taff, passing through Bute Park, Llandaff, and Radyr, before ascending into the forested hills. The day concludes at Castell Coch, a picturesque Gothic Revival castle perched above Tongwynlais.

Leaving Castell Coch, the trail climbs into the wooded foothills of the Valleys, following quiet lanes and forest tracks. Expect a mix of open countryside and wooded ridges as you wind northwards, traversing rural landscapes and eventually descending into the town of Pontypridd, a classic Valleys settlement.

This section heads deeper into the South Wales Valleys, ascending into the Brecon Beacons via steep hillsides and sweeping moorland. Leaving Pontypridd, you'll pass through Aberdare and start experiencing more remote terrain as you approach Storey Arms, a popular gateway to Pen y Fan.

A memorable mountain stage, this day includes the ascent of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain. Following ridge lines with expansive views, traverse open uplands before a gradual descent into the historic market town of Brecon. The route offers notable panoramic vistas of the Beacons.

Leaving Brecon, the trail follows the River Wye corridor and weaves through farmland, riverbanks, and quiet villages in Powys. Passing through moorland and patchwork countryside, the day ends in Builth Wells, known for its natural spa and the banks of the Wye.

The route continues through mid Wales, blending riverside walking with undulating slopes, heather moorland, and forested tracks. Expect remote paths and quiet valleys, finishing in Llanwrtyd Wells, Britain's smallest town famous for eccentric traditions.

A varied day across rural uplands, crossing rivers and expansive hillsides dotted with sheep farms. This section leads toward the western edge of the Cambrian Mountains, ending in the pretty market town of Llandovery on the River Towy.

Leaving Llandovery, the trail ventures north along the Tywi river valley before climbing into the remote upper reaches of the Cambrian Mountains. The day concludes in the small riverside village of Rhandirmwyn, surrounded by wooded hills.

This day dives deep into the wild heart of mid Wales, traversing remote moors and forested valleys with very limited amenities en route. The ancient monastic site at Strata Florida, nestled at the foot of Pumlumon, marks the day's destination.

From Strata Florida, the trail rises into the rugged, waterlogged Cambrian Mountains, crossing wild hills and open moorland before descending to Devil's Bridge. This scenic spot, known for its unique three-tiered bridges and waterfalls, provides a dramatic finish for the day.

A shorter day continuing through the Cambrian Mountains, with forested sections, hidden streams, and occasional remote farmsteads. The route gradually ascends to reach Ponterwyd, a small village lying at the edge of the next set of rugged uplands.

Set amid remote moorland, the route climbs steadily through heather-clad hills, crossing panoramic high ground before descending into the historic mining hamlet of Dylife. Expect a sense of isolation as you traverse one of the most unspoiled sections of the Cambrian Way.

Leaving Dylife, the path descends dramatic valleys, passing waterfalls and forest patches. The scenery becomes greener as you approach Machynlleth, a lively small town that marks the boundary of southern Snowdonia National Park.

The route heads north into the mountains, featuring steep and rugged ascents above the Dyfi Valley, before crossing over to the village of Dinas Mawddwy. This area offers rich mountain scenery, with few settlements and excellent wildlife spotting.

From Dinas Mawddwy, the trail traverses dense forests and then crosses high mountain ground, eventually leading to the Mawddach Estuary. The path follows the stunning estuary towards its mouth and concludes in the lively coastal town of Barmouth.

After crossing the tidal Barmouth Bridge, the route ascends steeply into northern Snowdonia. The path passes through mountainous terrain, woodland, and remote moor before arriving at the small village of Trawsfynydd, close to the famous lake.

This shorter stretch leads through scenic mixed woodland and rural landscapes, winding past reservoirs and forest paths. The beautiful village of Maentwrog, situated at the edge of dense woods, is the day's endpoint.

A classic Snowdonia section, the route ascends through forest and open hillside before entering wild mountain scenery. The trail visits remote upland areas and descends into the picturesque village of Beddgelert, famed for its alpine feel and mythic legends.

This stage is a true mountain adventure, following ancient tracks and ascending the dramatic southern flanks of Snowdon. The route offers options to summit Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) before descending to Pen-y-Pass, a famous mountain pass and hiker's hub.

Crossing the Glyderau and the dramatic Ogwen Valley, this walk takes in rocky ridges, mountain lakes, and windswept plateaus before reaching the village of Capel Curig. Expect several rocky scrambles and magnificent views along the route.

The final day passes through the Carneddau Mountains, featuring rugged high ground and remote moorland. After a final descent, the path ultimately arrives in Conwy, ending beneath the imposing walls of Conwy Castle and the North Wales coast.