Cribyn Wales
A dramatic 795m peak in the Brecon Beacons, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking panoramic views of the Welsh countryside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cribyn Wales
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic 795m peak in the Brecon Beacons, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking panoramic views of the Welsh countryside.
"Climbed Cribyn as part of the horseshoe trek... Very challenging but hugely satisfying and rewarding."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Essential for steep, rocky ascents and descents. Many reviewers emphasize the need for good grip and ankle support.
🗺️ Pack Navigation Tools
Mobile signal can be unreliable. A map, compass, or GPS device is crucial for safe navigation, especially in poor weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cribyn Summit
Summit
The dramatic sandstone escarpment offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons, including Pen y Fan.
The Gap (Bwlch y Gwyddel)
Between Cribyn and Fan y Big
An exhilarating mountain biking route along an old Roman road, offering a thrilling descent between peaks.
Henrhyd Falls
Near Coelbren
South Wales' tallest waterfall, famously featured as the Batcave entrance in The Dark Knight Rises. Walk behind the cascade!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Cribyn: Essential Prep
Timing Your Ascent for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Essential for steep, rocky ascents and descents. Many reviewers emphasize the need for good grip and ankle support.
🗺️ Pack Navigation Tools
Mobile signal can be unreliable. A map, compass, or GPS device is crucial for safe navigation, especially in poor weather.
💧 Hydration & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks, especially for longer hikes. There are no facilities on the mountain.
☁️ Check Weather Forecasts
Conditions change rapidly in the Brecon Beacons. Be prepared for wind, rain, and even snow, regardless of the season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Essential for steep, rocky ascents and descents. Many reviewers emphasize the need for good grip and ankle support.
🗺️ Pack Navigation Tools
Mobile signal can be unreliable. A map, compass, or GPS device is crucial for safe navigation, especially in poor weather.
💧 Hydration & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks, especially for longer hikes. There are no facilities on the mountain.
☁️ Check Weather Forecasts
Conditions change rapidly in the Brecon Beacons. Be prepared for wind, rain, and even snow, regardless of the season.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. Drones can offer unique perspectives. 
🏕️ Consider Camping
For sunset hikes, camping nearby is a budget-friendly option to avoid late-night travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cribyn for its stunning, panoramic views and the rewarding challenge of its steep ascent. The sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit is a major highlight, with many enjoying the less crowded nature of this peak compared to its neighbours. However, the demanding climb requires good fitness, and the unpredictable Welsh weather can impact the experience.
"Beautiful views from the top. Just need to be wary that it's a bit of a steep climb so good fitness is required to climb."
fs87
"Climbed Cribyn as part of the horseshoe trek covering all three peaks, four if you count Bryn. Had a really steep climb onto Cribyn from Bryn. Very challenging but hugely satisfying and rewarding. Not many people using this route, mostly coming to Cribyn from Pen y fan which was useful. Amazingly long and beautiful walk."
Michael Jones
"Direct and uncompromising, steep and airy. Cribyn approached from the north via Cymcynwyn and Bryn Teg.
The finish onto the summit is a thing of beauty"
Simon Cooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common approach is to travel to Cardiff by train or coach, then take a bus or taxi to the Brecon Beacons National Park. Some visitors opt to drive, with parking available at various trailheads like Neuadd car park (CF48 2UT) or near Pen y Fan.
Parking is available at the Neuadd car park (approximate postcode CF48 2UT ///rollover.kingpin.gems) for hikes starting from the east. For routes involving Pen y Fan, the main car parks are often busy. Arrive early or consider alternative trailheads.
Public transport options are limited, especially for reaching specific trailheads directly. Buses serve towns within the Brecon Beacons, but you may need to combine with taxis or walking from the nearest stops.
Yes, you can drive to various points within the Brecon Beacons National Park. However, roads can be narrow and winding, and parking at popular trailheads fills up quickly.
The nearest major train station is in Cardiff. From Cardiff, you would need to arrange onward travel via bus or taxi to reach the Brecon Beacons National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Cribyn and the surrounding Brecon Beacons National Park is free. There are no admission fees for accessing the trails or the mountains themselves.
Cribyn is an open natural landscape and does not have set opening or closing times. You can hike it at any time, but it's advisable to plan your hike within daylight hours for safety.
No, the Brecon Beacons National Park is a public area and does not charge an entrance fee. Parking at designated car parks may incur a fee.
Yes, many local companies offer guided hikes in the Brecon Beacons, including routes that incorporate Cribyn. This can be a great option for those seeking local knowledge and safety.
No permits are required for general hiking in the Brecon Beacons National Park. However, if you plan on any specific activities like wild camping in certain areas, check local regulations.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Cribyn is considered a challenging hike due to its steep ascents and rocky terrain. It requires good fitness and stamina. +1
Many hikers approach Cribyn as part of a horseshoe trek including Pen y Fan, Corn Du, and Fan y Big. Direct ascents are steep but rewarding. Approaching from the north can be quieter.
A hike solely to Cribyn and back can take 2-3 hours, depending on your fitness and chosen route. Including it in a larger trek can extend this significantly, often to 4-6 hours or more.
No, there are no facilities at the summit of Cribyn. It is a natural mountain landscape, so be prepared to be self-sufficient.
While families can hike Cribyn, it's best suited for older children with good hiking experience due to the steepness and challenging terrain. Shorter, less demanding waterfall walks in the area might be more suitable for younger children.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, with opportunities for stunning cloud inversions. Early mornings can also provide beautiful golden light and fewer crowds.
The summit itself offers incredible panoramic views. The approach to the summit, especially from the north, and the 'Gap' between Cribyn and Fan y Big are also highly photogenic.
Drones can offer unique aerial perspectives of Cribyn and the surrounding Brecon Beacons. However, always check current drone regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant peaks. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and time-lapses.
Weather can be a significant challenge, with rapid changes in light and conditions. The steep terrain can also make setting up equipment tricky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a more relaxed pace, consider exploring the lower valleys or visiting one of the charming villages within the park. Always ensure children are appropriately dressed for the weather and have plenty of snacks and water. For very young children, consider a carrier for any walking sections.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those looking to stay overnight without breaking the bank, wild camping is an option in certain areas, though it's essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and be aware of local guidelines.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+2 Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit, making the moment even more special. For a more secluded and unique stay, consider a digital detox glamping experience in the Brecon Beacons, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and each other away from the hustle and bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Brecon Beacons: Beyond Cribyn
+2 Other popular hikes in the park include the Elidir Trail, a family-friendly 7km route featuring four beautiful waterfalls, and the Llyn y Fan Fach & Picws Du circular, a quieter loop in the west of the park known for its connection to Welsh folklore. For those seeking different terrains, the Beacons Way offers a longer-distance trekking experience, with sections like the Abergavenny to Llanthony Priory route providing a taste of the park's diverse landscapes.
When planning your hikes, remember that the Brecon Beacons are known for their changeable weather. Always check the forecast, pack appropriate gear, and inform someone of your route and expected return time. The park is a vast and wild place, and safety should always be your top priority.
Waterfalls and Natural Wonders
These natural attractions offer a different perspective of the park's beauty, providing opportunities for gentle walks and impressive photographic subjects. While Cribyn offers challenging mountain ascents, these waterfall trails provide more accessible natural beauty for a wider range of visitors. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for potentially slippery paths around the falls.
Adventure Activities in the Brecon Beacons
This route follows an old Roman road and provides a unique way to experience the landscape. For those who prefer two legs to two wheels, horse riding and pony trekking are also available, offering a scenic way to explore the valleys and hills. The Grange Pony Trekking Centre is one such establishment offering these experiences. For the truly adventurous, wild swimming is a popular activity, with many lakes and rivers providing opportunities for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
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