📍 Dragon’s Back, Bannau Brycheiniog, Cymru
Over a week on and I’m still buzzing from this one—an absolutely epic day out on the Dragon’s Back! We went to Hay-on-Wye for the Riverside parkrun first which was really lovely.
This hike was everything: tough, wild, a bit cold at times, and utterly breathtaking.
We set out with high spirits and solid legs, and by the end we’d tamed the ridges and conquered the peaks. The climbs were no joke, especially up to Waun Fach (811 m), but every step was worth it for those views.
It felt like we were climbing for the first five kilometres. From the ruins of Castell Dinas (450 m) to the sweep of the Black Mountains from Pen y Grib (493 m), this route delivered in every way.
It was the third organised walk from the series but the second attended by friends.
As for the first one, I planned the route on paper maps, GPS Garmin device and OS Maps app. I sent a kit list, admin instructions including elevation and overall hole description, as well as a timed itinerary, and everyone was prepared. I also provided the customary flapjacks.
The company was brilliant (thanks Gary, Johnny and Gary!), the weather held, and the landscape felt like something straight out of a fantasy novel.
Being there, at the top of those hills brings me such joy I don’t know how to put it in words and pictures can’t show it either… it’s somehow awe for nature we are with, a sense of insignificance and impermanence that makes me feel free from daily worries. It just fills my happiness tank!
I haven’t stopped smiling since. This was a hike that reminded me why the mountains are my happy place.
Highlights:
- Sweeping ridges with huge views
- A proper leg-burner with rewarding climbs (yes, it’s a positive!)
- Sunshine, lovely friends, and moments of pure joy
Already planning to return. If you’re up for a challenge and love wild beauty, Dragon’s Back is calling!!
Diolch yn fawr! Hwyl!
