Picws Du summit & view of Llyn y Fan Fach
Picws Du summit & view of Llyn y Fan Fach
Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(130)
Picws Du Summit, standing at 749 meters (2,457 feet), is a prominent peak within the Black Mountain range, part of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Carmarthenshire, South Wales. It is the second-highest point of the Carmarthen Fans (Bannau Sir Gâr) and offers a commanding view over the serene glacial lake of Llyn y Fan Fach, nestled in the cwm below. This area is renowned for its dramatic glaciated landscape and rich geological history.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from Picws Du. The striking shape of the mountain, with its steep, terraced sandstone flanks, combined with the tranquil beauty of Llyn y Fan Fach, creates a truly memorable vista. Many describe the extensive outlook across the valley and towards distant landmarks like the Cambrian Mountains, Pen y Fan, and Corn Du as one of their favorite experiences in the region.
Approaching Picws Du, hikers should be prepared for varied terrain, though routes are generally not overly technical. The quickest access is often from the Llyn y Fan Fach car park to the north, offering a good starting point for an adventure. While the landscape is remote and untouched, making it ideal for solitude, it's wise to wear appropriate footwear and clothing suitable for mountain conditions, as the weather can change rapidly.
The area offers diverse hiking routes, from accessible paths to more challenging circuits that can encompass other peaks like Fan Foel and Waun Lefrith, or even connect to the long-distance Beacons Way. Many choose to incorporate a visit to Llyn y Fan Fawr, located a couple of miles to the east, into their journey. The remote setting also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with red kites, common buzzards, kestrels, and skylarks frequently seen.
At the summit of Picws Du, hikers can discover a large Bronze Age round barrow, adding a layer of ancient history to the natural beauty. Below, Llyn y Fan Fach is steeped in the legendary tale of the "Lady of the Lake," a significant piece of Welsh folklore that enhances the mystical allure of this glacial landscape. The feeling of immersion in nature and the sense of escape from daily pressures are often highlighted by those who visit.
Whether you're seeking a challenging ascent or a scenic walk with incredible views, the trails around Picws Du and Llyn y Fan Fach cater to various preferences. You can explore a wide array of hiking routes and plan your visit using komoot, discovering options for different fitness levels and interests. The area provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the wild beauty of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
October 30, 2018
Hiking
July 18, 2020
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May 17, 2021
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Picws Du summit & view of Llyn y Fan Fach
4.9
(151)
1,159
hikers
14.2km
04:36
630m
630m
Embark on the Llyn y Fan Fach to Llyn y Fan Fawr loop, a moderate hiking route that takes you through the dramatic Carmarthen Fans. This 8.8-mile (14.2 km) journey offers expansive views across the Welsh landscape, guiding you past two stunning glacial lakes, Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr, nestled beneath impressive escarpments. You will gain 2070 feet (631 metres) in elevation, with the entire loop typically taking around 4 hours and 36 minutes to complete. Expect varied terrain, including remote moorland and the occasional waterfall, making for a rewarding experience.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can be demanding, featuring steep, grassy sections, rugged mountains, and some rocky paths. The ground can be uneven, and loose stone is possible, especially on descents. If you hike in wet conditions, parts of the trail may become extremely boggy, so sturdy walking boots are essential for comfort and safety. Always check local weather forecasts before you head out.
This loop is notable for its striking views from summits like Fan Brycheiniog, where you might even spot Pen-y-Fan on a clear day. The route provides a deep dive into the natural beauty of Bannau Brycheiniog / Brecon Beacons National Park, showcasing its unique geological formations and remote wilderness. It is a fantastic option if you are looking for a substantial day hike that combines physical challenge with breathtaking scenery.
4.8
(23)
140
hikers
9.99km
03:27
550m
550m
Hike the moderate 6.2-mile Fan Foel, Picws Du & Llyn y Fan Fach loop from Blaenau, featuring a glacial lake and panoramic views.
4.7
(17)
148
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 780 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 5 May
12°C
6°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
Most visited during
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There are various ways to explore the area. A popular option is to start from the Llyn y Fan Fach car park, which offers the quickest approach to the summit. Many hikers choose to incorporate a circuit that includes other peaks like Waun Lefrith and Fan Foel, or even connect to the long-distance Beacons Way. For a longer adventure, you can extend your hike to include Llyn y Fan Fawr, located a couple of miles to the east, creating a scenic two-lake route.
The hike to Picws Du Summit is generally considered challenging due to its varied terrain and elevation gain. While routes are not overly technical, they require a good level of fitness. For those seeking a less strenuous option, there are more accessible paths around Llyn y Fan Fach itself. More experienced hikers can tackle challenging circuits that encompass multiple peaks and ridges, offering a rewarding adventure.
The most common starting point is the car park near Llyn y Fan Fach. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season or on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly. Due to the remote nature of the area, public transport options are very limited or non-existent directly to the trailhead. Planning your journey by car is generally recommended.
Llyn y Fan Fach is steeped in the famous Welsh legend of the 'Lady of the Lake'. This 13th-century tale tells of a young farmer who encountered a beautiful woman emerging from the lake. They fell in love and married under certain conditions. When these conditions were broken, she returned to the lake, taking her magical livestock with her, but leaving her sons who became the legendary 'Physicians of Myddfai'. This folklore adds a mystical allure to the glacial landscape.
Winter hiking to Picws Du can be a spectacular experience, but it requires careful preparation. The weather can change rapidly, and conditions can be harsh, with snow and ice common. Hikers should be equipped with appropriate winter gear, including warm layers, waterproofs, sturdy boots, and potentially ice axes or crampons depending on conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Yes, the area is part of the Fforest Fawr Geopark and boasts significant geological features. Picws Du itself is composed of sandstones and mudstones from the Devonian period, with harder sandstone forming its summit. During the ice ages, glaciers carved out the distinctive bowl-shaped valleys (cirques) and left behind moraines, contributing to the dramatic landscape, including the formation of Llyn y Fan Fach.
Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly, and many hikers enjoy bringing their canine companions. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially due to the presence of livestock (sheep and ponies) and ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Countryside Code, pick up after your dog, and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
Due to the remote and untouched nature of the landscape, there are excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Birdwatchers may be particularly interested in seeing red kites, common buzzards, kestrels, carrion crows, common ravens, and skylarks. The area's solitude also makes it a haven for various other species adapted to mountain environments.
The immediate area around Picws Du and Llyn y Fan Fach is very remote, with no direct amenities like cafes or pubs. Visitors should come prepared with all necessary supplies, including food and water. There may be scattered accommodation options, such as campsites or guesthouses, in the surrounding countryside and nearby villages, but these are not within walking distance of the trailhead.
Yes, it is possible to combine a visit to both Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr. Llyn y Fan Fawr is located about two miles to the east of Llyn y Fan Fach. Many longer hiking routes in the area are designed to encompass both glacial lakes, offering an extended and rewarding experience of the Black Mountain's stunning scenery.