Fan y Bîg Summit and Diving Board
Fan y Bîg Summit and Diving Board
Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(270)
Mountain biking
5.0
(4)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
October 30, 2018
Hiking
February 6, 2024
Hiking
November 17, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Fan y Bîg Summit and Diving Board
4.8
(294)
1,804
hikers
Embark on a challenging 15.5-mile (25.0 km) hike through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, tackling the iconic peaks of Pen y Fan, Cribyn, and Fan y Big. This difficult route involves a significant 3658 feet (1115 metres) of elevation gain, with rocky paths and multiple steep climbs and descents, including the famous "Jacob's Ladder." You will experience dramatic panoramic views from the summits, especially from Cribyn, looking out towards Pen y Fan's steep eastern flank and the distant Bristol Channel on clear days. The distinctive "diving board" at Fan y Big offers a memorable photo opportunity.
This loop typically takes around 8 hours and 16 minutes to complete, requiring very good fitness and sure-footedness. The trail starts from Storey Arms, a well-known access point for the central Brecon Beacons. Be prepared for varied terrain that can be muddy after rain, and ensure you wear sturdy shoes. While the main path to Pen y Fan can be busy, extending your hike to include Cribyn and Fan y Big often provides a less crowded experience on these sections.
The Pen y Fan, Cribyn & Fan y Big loop is a classic component of the
4.8
(271)
1,776
hikers
The Pen y Fan Horseshoe Ridge offers a challenging and rewarding hike through Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. This classic circular route covers 11.5 miles (18.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2370 feet (722 metres), typically taking around 5 hours and 55 minutes to complete. You will traverse well-worn mountain trails, rocky sections, and grassy ridges, encountering numerous steep ascents and descents, including pitched stone staircases. From the summits of Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn, you can enjoy magnificent 360-degree views across the Brecon Beacons and towards the Neuadd Reservoirs below.
Rated as difficult, this route demands good fitness and sturdy footwear. The trail can be a mixture of mud, rock, and stony paths, with some sections becoming boggy, especially in winter. The ridge sections are exposed, so be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather and potential wind. Starting your hike early is often recommended to secure parking and experience quieter sections of this popular trail.
This route is celebrated as one of the best ridge walks in southern Britain, forming a distinctive U-shape around the Taf Fechan glacial valley. It includes Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales, along with Corn Du and Cribyn, all featuring Bronze Age burial cairns. The challenging conditions and varied terrain also make it a famous training ground, notably used by UK Special Forces for their selection process.
4.9
(23)
160
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 690 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Tuesday 5 May
11°C
6°C
29 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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