Pen Y Fan, Wales: The Truth about Walking to the Summit as a Novice

Walking Pen Y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales, was at the top of my list of things to do in the Brecon Beacons.

I was staying for 3-nights in the area before heading for a holiday in Pembrokeshire, and I wanted to experience something out of my comfort zone.

Pen Y Fan seemed like a fabulous option, as it is one of the most beautiful mountain walks in Wales and would be a challenge for me.

In this guide, I cover all you need to know about walking Pen Y Fan as a novice. This article will help you prepare better for climbing Pen Y Fan and shows the best Pen Y Fan route to take to the summit.

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Pen Y Fan Online Resources

Before I started my walk, I eagerly combed through hiking websites to learn more about how hard it would be to climb Pen Y Fan.

Plenty of online information told me this mountain was easy to navigate and suitable for all ages, from children to golden oldies.

One website even stated it was a mountain walk for softies – I later learned, during my climb up the highest mountain in the Brecon Beacons, that this statement was far from the truth for me.

With the height of Pen Y Fan being 886 metres above sea level, it was only 200 metres shorter than Table Mountain in South Africa, and I managed that ascent with minimal discomfort.

I surmised that this iconic Welsh mountain couldn’t be anywhere near as challenging as hiking to the top of Table Mountain, so I decided to attempt the ascent to the summit of Pen Y Fan.

I was to be proved wrong, and with every heavy footstep and beating heartbeat, I was reminded that this was not the easy climb that others had described. And so because of this, I have answered questions for my readers that I wish I had found before I did the climb.

It is definitely better to know what is in store for you as a novice before walking up Pen y Fan!

Regardless of how hard I found it, hiking Pen Y Fan gave me a real sense of achievement, and I am really glad I did it.

The rewards for doing it speak for themselves in the form of sensational views all the way to the top. Scroll through to the end and see the photographs I took on my journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pen Y Fan

How high is Pen Y Fan?

The height of Pen Y Fan is 886m above sea level, but at the start of the walking route, it is an ascent of 440m from the Pont ar Daf car park.

Do I have to be fit to climb Pen Y Fan?

This million-dollar question is a hard one to answer. I found it extremely tough, as did my husband, and so it would seem did plenty of others who were stopping on the route out of breath.

We expected it to be challenging but not as intense as it was.

Our fitness level is ok. We walk a lot but aren’t hill/mountain climbers, which is very different from walking on the flat.

In comparison to how hard we found the climb, there were plenty of others who didn’t find it anywhere near as challenging. In particular, the small child who greeted me at the summit and the guy running up to the summit carrying a huge weighted rucksack.

I later discovered that the SAS used this as a training ground for the world’s oldest Special Forces test, so I didn’t feel quite so feeble!

Should I attempt the climb?

I could never have realised as I looked up at this imposing mountain that the walk would push me to my limits and test my mettle. It is proof that you can achieve most things you set your mind to; however, you should never compare what others find easy to your own abilities.

If you don’t feel comfortable climbing Pen-Y-Fan, it is not a failure to stop; it could be the correct decision you need to make.

No matter what the guidebooks say, this is a hard and demanding walk, not a stroll in the park, as some hardened walkers portray it to be.

How many Pen Y Fan routes are there to the top?

There are several routes to reach the summit.

The so-called “Easy” Pen Y Fan Walk (excuse me while I laugh out loud) is 4 miles long – 2 miles up and 2 miles back down (it seriously felt a lot longer than that!). Locals call this walking route “The Motorway” as it can get extremely busy. This walk starts at Pont ar Daf car park by the stream.

A similar 4-mile (7k) circular walk takes a different route back down, which includes the smaller mountain (I use the word “smaller’ very lightly) with a height of 873m called Corn Du.

The start will be at the Pont ar Daf car park and finish at the Storey Arms car park.

Other routes range from six to 11 miles, but I guess if you are reading this, then you are a novice and are still deciding whether or not this is for you.

How long will it take to reach the summit?

On average, Pen y Fan walk time is one hour for the “Easy” (I say with a smirk), one-way route, but it all depends on your pace.

We counted 100 steps and then stopped to catch our breath as we got closer to the summit. Walking Pen Y Fan took us approximately 90 minutes each way.

When should I choose to visit?

You can climb it all year round, but you need to be prepared for when the weather gets bad.

Always check the day’s forecast before your ascent; what might start as a sunny day could quickly turn into fog and rain as you get higher into the clouds.

What time of day should I visit?

We visited at the end of September and arrived in the late afternoon. As we ascended (slowly!), we were met with hoards of visitors on their way down.

If those many climbers had been heading towards the summit at the same time as us, I think we would have given up.

Pen Y Fan gets over 350,000 visitors a year, so it all depends on luck and the weather as to how many other climbers will be on the mountain with you.

Be aware of what time the sunsets during the year. We witnessed visitors starting their climb as we were on our way down (oh, the joy!), and on asking why so many people had suddenly appeared, we were told it was for the sunset.

This works well if you have intentionally planned it, but the last thing you want is to be on the mountain when it gets dark. Always have a torch with you – just in case of emergencies.

How many peaks are there in the Brecon Beacons?

There are four main peaks in the Brecon Beacons. Pen Y Fan (886m), Corn Du (873m), Cribyn (795m), and Fan Y Big (719m), yes, you read correctly. It isn’t a spelling mistake!

Is there a car park?

Yes, there are two car parks along the A470. One is at the Storey Arms Outdoor Centre, but the best Pen Y Fan car park is at Pont ar Daf. 

Are there toilets nearby?

Yes, in the Pont ar Daf car park, but none are en route to the summit.

Is there anywhere to get refreshments for the climb?

Yes, a small burger van is in the car park at Pont ar Daf. However, I recommend you bring water, snacks etc., with you.

Can I wear trainers for the climb?

Yes. I had no choice but to wear mine as my walking boots had fallen apart the day before. The correct footwear is always advisable, and a good grip is essential as the gravel pathway to the summit may prove hazardous in bad weather.

My new walking boots have now arrived, ready for my next adventure. I would also advise investing in a pair of walking poles – I saw several walkers using them and have since bought myself a pair!

Pen Y Fan Weather

Due to the sudden extreme changes in weather conditions that can be experienced, Pen y Fan is considered one of the most dangerous mountains in Wales.

By referring to Met Office Weather Forecast, you can find out if the weather is suitable for climbing Pen Y Fan.

What clothing should I wear for the climb?

Layers! I started at the bottom with a t-shirt, fleece, ski jacket and woollen hat.

Midway up the mountain, I stripped back the coat and fleece (this was the point that I was struggling) but left my hat on as my ears were cold. At the top, all my clothes plus a pair of gloves went back on as it was very windy and cold.

Don’t forget the importance of breathable walking socks and waterproof walking boots.

Girl Guides motto – be prepared!!

What does Pen Y Fan mean?

A rough translation means “Top One” or “Top of the Summit.”

How is Pen Y Fan Pronounced?

Being English, I pronounced it ‘Penny Fan’ until I was corrected by a lovely Welsh lady who told me it was ‘Pen er Van’. So make sure you say it the right way!

Why is there a stone pile at the summit?

The stone pile indicates a burial place from the Bronze Age. A National Trust plaque sits on top of the pile, marking the summit.

What can you see from the summit?

The most stunning views of the Bristol Channel, the Gower Peninsula, the Black Mountains, Exmoor, the Cambrian Mountains, Brecon, and much of Mid-Wales and the South Wales valleys. It is truly breathtaking.

Where can I stay in the area?

Nant Ddu in Merthyr Tydfil is one of the closest country hotels to the mountain.

YHA Libanus and YHA Danywenallt are in the Brecon Beacons and are a great base for all outdoor activities.

A Photographic Journey to the Summit

Book Guided Tours of Pen Y Fan

 Conclusion

For me, this was a challenging walk/hike; however, the effort was worth it, as the views are breathtaking!

South Wales is a stunning part of the world, and the sense of achievement on reaching the summit far outweighs any struggles to get to it.

What do you think? Would you hike to the top?

Please Pin for Future Travel to Wales