A family who set out for a "gentle walk" up Pen Y Fan found the climb more challenging than expected, but they said the effort was rewarded with stunning views from the summit. Lizzie Jordan and her relatives tackled the highest peak in South Wales and shared their experience on TikTok.
A tougher trek than anticipated
Pen Y Fan, located in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, stands at 2,907 feet, making it a significant undertaking. Lizzie's video highlighted the "expectation versus reality" of the ascent, with a caption admitting: "Pen y Fan was harder than I thought! But well worth it for the views!"
The footage showed the trail starting on even but rocky terrain, before the group encountered steep steps built into the rock. At one point, they had to pause to catch their breath while climbing a series of steps.
Advice for fellow climbers
Lizzie offered a tip for other hikers, suggesting: "Make sure you also take a detour to Llyn Cwm Llwch (lake) for a much needed cool off in the water! (It's seven metres deep!)"
In response to a TikTok user asking about the route and parking, Lizzie explained that they parked for free in a lay-by near the Storey Arms burger van, with an alternative being the National Trust car park just below, which costs about £7. She described walking down to the National Trust car park and following the main track to Corn Du, where they could either take the steep route or a lower path to the right, which leads directly to Pen y Fan.
Official guidance for visitors
Visit Wales advises drivers to use designated parking spaces only. The main car park, Pont-ar-Daf, is eight miles south of Brecon on the A470, while Cwm Gwdi car park, north of Pen y Fan, is smaller and both can get busy year-round. Both car parks are owned and operated by the National Trust, with parking charges applying 24 hours a day.
The National Trust describes the walk as a "strenuous, circular mountain walk on well-made footpaths to the summit of Pen y Fan and Corn Du in the Brecon Beacons," featuring a moderate climb with steep steps near the summit and uneven surfaces throughout. It adds that, weather permitting, walkers can enjoy views of Brecon and, on a clear day, the summit of Cadair Idris.
