Llyn y Fan Fawr and Llyn y Fan Fach Circular
About
The trail can get both rocky and boggy underfoot and involves stream crossings, so appropriate footwear and appropriate preparation is required for this trail. This route can get a little wild during harsh, windy weather conditions.
This is a beautiful trail in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), taking you up the Carmarthen Fans (Bannau Sir Gaer), visiting the peaks of Fan Brycheiniog, Fan Foel, Picws Du, Waun Lefrith, and passing both Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr. This area boasts breathtaking views, serene lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
The trail starts from a small parking area along Heol Lan Road, where you follow the path along the River Tawe on a sustained climb all the way to the banks of Llyn Fan Fawr, where the ascent steepens as you make the (at times steep) climb up Fan Brycheiniog.
Continue northwest along the Carmarthenshire ridge path towards Fan Foel. This particular point along the ridge sticks out, offering brilliant views of the dramatic escarpment that characterises the area.
Descend to the col, where a river crossing awaits before another steep ascent to Picws Du. Once you reach the top, the panoramic views are incredible, making the climb well worth it. On a clear day, you can see across Bannau Brycheiniog to all the major peaks, including Pen y Fan.
Continue along the ridge to the final summit, Waun Lefrith, after which it’s a steep descent down the ridge on the west side of the lake to the banks of Llyn y Fan Fach, which, according to Welsh folklore, is said to be inhabited by the Lady of the Lake. Here, you’re treated to incredible views across the water with the Carmarthen Fans behind it.
You’ll pass the dam and shelter along the edge of the lake before continuing on a gentle ascent along the base of the ridge. This section of the trail is part of the Beacon’s Way, a long-distance route connecting Abergavenny to Ysgyryd Fawr.
You’ll arrive back at Llyn y Fan Fawr. Take a moment to savour the tranquillity of the lake, strolling along its banks before retracing your steps back to the car park.
While dogs are welcome on this trail, it's important to note that you're likely to encounter free-roaming sheep, so leads are advised.