Brecon Beacons National Park

Brecon Beacons National Park Review

About 5 miles southwest of Brecon you encounter mountains and wild, windswept uplands that are tipped by shafts of golden light when the weather's fine, or fingers of ghostly mist when it's not. This 519-square-mile park is one of Wales's most breathtaking areas, perfect for a hike or scenic drive. Start at the visitor center on Mynydd Illtyd, a grassy stretch of upland west of the A470. It's an excellent source of information about the park, including maps and advice on the best routes (guided or self-guided). There's also an excellent Tea Room where you can fuel up for the journey or reward yourself with an indulgent slice of cake afterwards. If you want to see it all from your car, any road that crosses the Beacons will reward you with beautiful views, but the most spectacular is the high and undulating A4069, between Brynamman and Llangadog in the park's western end. To explore the moorlands on foot, come prepared. Mist and rain descend quickly, and the summits are exposed to high winds.