Cume de Cribyn

Part of South Wales’ most majestic mountain quartet, hikes to Cribyn make you feel like you’re not only on top of the world, but like you’ve crossed off a major achievement. One of the central summits in Pen y Fan’s sweeping horseshoe, it doesn’t take too much extra effort to add Cribyn into a Pen y Fan hike. 

Easy to reach by car from Brecon, Swansea and Cardiff, walks in this central section of the Brecon Beacons aren’t too challenging in good conditions. Families can enjoy gentle routes up to Cribyn at 2,608 feet (795 m) and you’ll be rewarded by exhilarating views across to South Wales’ queen, Pen y Fan. 

Friendly mountains with fantastic views

Choose from a variety of hiking trails to Cribyn’s eye-catching summit, taking it as easy or as quickly as you please. Like its neighbouring peaks, Cribyn is grassy and exposed, with deep valleys trundling down from its northern escarpment and the Upper Neuadd Reservoir languishing in the southern bowl.This means that, on a clear day, you’ll have outstanding views throughout your hike, no matter which route you use. 

Cribyn can see snowfall in the depths of winter and even when it’s clear, it experiences freezing temperatures in the shortest months. Experienced hikers can make the most of winter light though, which lends itself to stunning photographs on sunny days. Spring and summer are high season but, unlike Pen y Fan, Cribyn rarely sees crowds. This makes it a perfect summer hike, just don’t forget the water and sunscreen.