The best walks and hikes around Glyn Tarell

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For a challenging day out, the Pen y Fan, Cribyn & Fan y Big loop covers multiple peaks in one extensive circuit.

For a shorter, less strenuous walk that's suitable for most abilities, the Craig Cerrig-gleisiad & Fan Frynych Nature Reserve loop is a great choice. This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail explores a beautiful, glacially-carved landscape without the major ascents of the higher peaks.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Bannau Brycheiniog, but the area is active farmland with sheep. You must keep your dog on a lead and under close control at all times, especially during lambing season (spring). The open moorland trails are great for dogs, but always be mindful of livestock.

The region is famous for its waterfalls. While not starting directly in Glyn Tarell, a short drive will take you to the highly-regarded Henrhyd Falls, the tallest in South Wales, or the popular Waterfall Country area, which features numerous cascades accessible via well-trodden paths.

The Storey Arms outdoor centre is the most common and popular starting point for hikes up to Pen y Fan and Corn Du. There is parking available, but it gets extremely busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is essential.

The difficulty depends on the route you choose. The main path from Storey Arms is a steady, relentless climb but is well-maintained and manageable for most people with a good level of fitness. Routes like the loop via Cefn Cwm Llwch are more challenging, involving steeper sections and greater distance.

The main mountain and valley trails around Glyn Tarell are quite remote and do not have pubs directly on the routes. For refreshments after your hike, you will need to drive to the nearby towns and villages, such as Brecon, where you'll find a good selection of traditional Welsh pubs and cafes.

The views are spectacular and one of the main draws of hiking here. From the high ridges, you get sweeping 360-degree panoramas across the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. In the valleys, you'll enjoy views of the dramatic, glacially-carved cliffs and the winding River Tarell.

There are over 130 hiking routes to explore around Glyn Tarell on komoot. They range from 28 easy walks in the valleys and nature reserves to over 40 difficult mountain ascents, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The hiking routes in this area are very highly rated by the komoot community. With an average score of 4.7 stars from over 3,400 reviews, hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the peaks and the raw, wild beauty of the landscape.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Some valley walks, like those following sections of the Taff Trail, pass remnants of old farmsteads and follow the path of former 18th-century coach roads. On some of the higher ground, you can also find evidence of Iron Age hill forts.