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Craig Yr Allt is a prominent 273-meter (896 ft) hill located in South Wales, within the county borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf. Overlooking the town of Caerphilly to the east and the villages of Nantgarw and Taff's Well to the west, it offers an accessible natural escape near urban centers like Cardiff. This hill is recognized as a Marilyn due to its significant prominence and forms part of the scenic upland landscape above the Taff Valley.
What truly draws visitors…
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November 11, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Craig yr Allt
3.8
(19)
121
hikers
9.18km
02:44
290m
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4.2
(13)
47
hikers
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430m
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
25
hikers
24.3km
07:04
630m
630m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
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You can begin your ascent from several convenient locations. Popular starting points include the car park on Caerphilly Mountain, which allows for the option of bagging both hills, or from Castell Coch to the south. Starting from Castell Coch also provides the opportunity to follow the Taff Trail or explore Fforest Fawr en route to Craig Yr Allt.
Yes, there are various walking routes, including circular paths. Many hikers choose to start from Castell Coch or Tongwynlais, which often incorporate sections through Fforest Fawr and reclaimed quarry sites, allowing for a satisfying loop back to your starting point.
Absolutely. Craig Yr Allt is known for its well-maintained trails and moderate elevation gains, making it an ideal objective for families and those new to hiking. The terrain is generally easy underfoot, characterized by grassy slopes and heather-strewn hillsides, offering a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience.
Yes, Craig Yr Allt is generally dog-friendly. Its open grassy slopes and well-defined trails make it a great place to walk your dog. However, always ensure your dog is under control, especially around livestock if present, and remember to clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
From the unmarked summit of Craig Yr Allt, you can expect incredible 360° panoramic views. These vistas include Cardiff and the Bristol Channel to the south, Pontypridd to the north, Garth Hill to the west, and Caerphilly Mountain to the east. It offers a unique perspective contrasting natural landscapes with nearby urban areas.
Craig Yr Allt's proximity to urban centers like Cardiff and Caerphilly makes it relatively accessible by public transport. You can typically take a train or bus to Caerphilly, Nantgarw, or Taff's Well, and then connect to local bus services or walk to the trailheads. Planning your route with local transport providers is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the area has some historical significance. Records from 1839 mention a farm called Tir Craig yr Allt, which later became part of the Plymouth estate. While the original farmhouse was rebuilt further down the Nant Brynau valley, traces of older stonework can still be found on the slopes, hinting at absorbed smaller farms from the past.
The Taff Ely Ridgeway Walk, also known as Ffordd y Bryniau, is a scenic long-distance path. It does indeed pass directly over Craig Yr Allt, providing a clear and well-defined route for hikers looking to traverse the hill as part of a longer journey.
Given Craig Yr Allt's location overlooking villages like Nantgarw and Taff's Well, and its proximity to Caerphilly and Cardiff, there are various amenities available. You'll find pubs and cafes in these nearby towns and villages where you can enjoy refreshments after your hike.
Craig Yr Allt stands at an elevation of 273 meters (896 ft). It is classified as a Marilyn, a hill with a prominence of at least 150 meters, specifically having a prominence of 154 meters (505 ft). This significant prominence contributes to the expansive views from its summit.