Llyn y Fan Fawr
A breathtaking glacial lake in the Brecon Beacons, offering challenging hikes and stunning, wild landscapes. A true hidden gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Llyn y Fan Fawr
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial lake in the Brecon Beacons, offering challenging hikes and stunning, wild landscapes. A true hidden gem.
"One of the best secret places to hike with amazing views and a true sense of wilderness."
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
Drive slowly on the single-track road to parking; be ready to reverse.
🧥 Summit Wind Warning
The top is very windy! Bring a warm jacket and windproof layers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Llyn y Fan Fawr Lake
Below Fan Brycheiniog
A stunning glacial lake reflecting the dramatic cliffs of Fan Brycheiniog. A perfect spot for a peaceful break.
Fan Brycheiniog Summit
Highest peak in the Black Mountain range
Conquer the highest peak for panoramic views across South West Wales and the Brecon Beacons.
Nant y Llyn Waterfalls
On the route to Llyn y Fan Fawr
Discover picturesque waterfalls along the Nant y Llyn stream, adding a magical element to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Narrow Roads
Weather-Ready for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
Drive slowly on the single-track road to parking; be ready to reverse.
🧥 Summit Wind Warning
The top is very windy! Bring a warm jacket and windproof layers.
🥾 Boggy Paths
Expect muddy and boggy sections, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are essential.
🗺️ Route Planning
Use apps like AllTrails or Komoot for detailed walking routes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Road Alert!
Drive slowly on the single-track road to parking; be ready to reverse.
🧥 Summit Wind Warning
The top is very windy! Bring a warm jacket and windproof layers.
🥾 Boggy Paths
Expect muddy and boggy sections, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are essential.
🗺️ Route Planning
Use apps like AllTrails or Komoot for detailed walking routes.
💧 Cold Dip Potential
Llyn y Fan Fawr is a great spot for a refreshing cold dip on a warm day!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Llyn y Fan Fawr, calling it one of the best secret hiking spots with amazing views and a true sense of wilderness. The challenging yet rewarding walks around the glacial lakes are a major draw, offering a peaceful escape. Some note the narrow access road and windy summit as points to be aware of.
"One of the best secret places to hike. I’ve been on too many hikes and Lynn y Fan has been one of my best experiences. The views are amazing, this place is unknown to many people , therefore it’s quiet even on weekends and you can spend 5 hours in nature hiking the entire circle by the two lakes. Would recommend this place to anyone that loves hiking!
Ps: the road to the parking lot is narrow, hopefully you are lucky and don’t have to face a car driving on the opposite direction. Also the summit is really windy! Ensure to bring a jacket and snacks!"
Doritos
"Trekking through the Welsh Beacons to Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr offers a challenging yet breathtaking adventure. The 24-kilometer hike rewards with stunning views of Pen y Fan, wild horses, and majestic kites soaring above. Despite some tough spots, the experience is truly rewarding. Free parking is available, but watch out for the narrow single track road. Cooling off in the refreshing waters of Llyn y Fan Fawr caps off an unforgettable journey"
S Jones
"Standing alone and far from human settlements, this remote and isolated body of water is dominated by, and continually reflects the great north east cliff of Fan Brycheinog.
My preferred approach is from the Tafarn y Garreg pub. From here you cross the road, skirt the campsite and cross the River Tawe.
As you follow the West Bank of the river through trees, you can start to see the great ridge of Fan Hir rising and heading northwards.
You’ll turn left and head up to the edge of the farmland, your path goes right and parallels the the dry stone walls.
All the time you are steadily rising, leaving the farmland behind you, making your way across a tributary of the river, until you find yourself on a ridge that keeps the cliff close to your left.
The lake, when it appears is spectacular, with sweeping views over open heath to the north.
From here you work your way to the left of the waters edge and rise steeply on a well made path to the top of the ridge. From here, a fine open promenade will take you back south to the start of the route.
You can see the whole sweep of south west wales in front of you, to the west, the Beacons stretch off to the horizon.
A perfect 4 hour walk."
Simon Cooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access is via a narrow, single-track road leading to a parking area. Visitors often use the postcode SA19 9UN or the Tafarn y Garreg pub as a starting point. Be prepared for oncoming traffic and drive cautiously.
Yes, there is free parking available. However, the road leading to it is narrow, so be mindful of other vehicles. +1
Public transport options are limited for reaching this remote location. It's generally recommended to travel by car for easier access.
The postcode often cited for Llyn y Fan Fach (which is near Llyn y Fan Fawr) is SA19 9UN.
The Tafarn y Garreg pub is a recommended starting point or stop for some routes, offering facilities and a place to rest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Llyn y Fan Fawr is a natural attraction within the Brecon Beacons National Park, and there are no entry fees or tickets required to visit.
As an outdoor natural site, Llyn y Fan Fawr is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
While it's considered a 'secret place' and often quieter than other Brecon Beacons spots, visiting on weekdays or early in the morning during peak season can help avoid larger groups.
Visitors should respect the natural environment and follow national park guidelines. The area is also used by the MOD for training, so be aware of any local advisories.
Wild camping is generally discouraged in national parks. There are campsites in the wider Brecon Beacons area, but direct camping at the lake is not typically permitted.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Popular routes include the circular walk encompassing both Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr, often starting from Fforest Fawr Car Park. Another option is an 8km hike via Nant y Llyn to Fan Brycheiniog. 
The circular walk around both lakes can take approximately 4-5 hours, covering around 15-24 kilometers depending on the exact route.
The terrain can be challenging, with steep ascents to the ridge and potentially boggy paths, especially in winter. Sturdy footwear is essential.
Absolutely! The views from the ridge overlooking the lakes and the surrounding Beacons are spectacular. The waterfalls of Nant y Llyn also offer great photo ops.
Yes, swimming in Llyn y Fan Fawr is possible and many visitors enjoy a refreshing cold dip. Be aware of the cold water temperatures, especially outside of summer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Llyn y Fan Fawr. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery.
The Tafarn y Garreg pub is a good option for a meal or drink after your hike. Otherwise, you'll need to drive to nearby towns like Ystradgynlais.
Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks like sandwiches, fruit, and energy bars, especially for longer walks.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and lakes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The reflections in the lake, the dramatic cliffs of Fan Brycheiniog, and the Nant y Llyn waterfalls are all prime photography locations.
Drone usage may be subject to regulations within the national park. Always check local guidelines before flying.
Dramatic weather, like snow or mist, can create stunning photographic opportunities. Be prepared for changing conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are non-existent. 🚶 Solo Hikers
The windy summit can be a challenge, so ensure you're adequately prepared with layers. 📸 Photographers
Aim for golden hour for the best light, and don't shy away from capturing dramatic weather conditions like snow or mist. A wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the expansive landscapes. Be prepared for a hike to reach the best vantage points, and consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures of the waterfalls.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Lady of the Lake
This legend adds a layer of mystique to the already enchanting landscape. Visitors often feel a sense of ancient magic when exploring the area, imagining the Lady of the Lake watching over her domain. The dramatic cliffs and serene waters of Llyn y Fan Fawr seem to hold secrets from centuries past, making the hike a journey not just through nature, but through folklore as well.
While the legend is primarily associated with Llyn y Fan Fach, the proximity and shared dramatic scenery mean that the mystique often extends to Llyn y Fan Fawr. The remote and wild nature of the Brecon Beacons provides the perfect backdrop for such tales, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Hiking Routes and Terrain
+1 It's a challenging but incredibly scenic trek that many consider a highlight of hiking in Wales. Another popular option is the approximately 8km hike via the Nant y Llyn waterfalls to the summit of Fan Brycheiniog, the highest peak in the Black Mountain range. This route offers a different perspective, incorporating the beauty of the waterfalls before ascending to the expansive views from the summit.
The terrain can be varied, including well-made paths, open heathland, and potentially boggy sections, especially during wetter months. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a must. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, shorter walks around the immediate vicinity of the lakes are possible, offering stunning views without the full commitment of the longer circuits. Regardless of the chosen route, visitors should be prepared for windy conditions at higher elevations and pack accordingly with layers and waterproofs.
Photography Opportunities
The Nant y Llyn waterfalls offer a more intimate photographic subject, with cascading water and moss-covered rocks creating picturesque scenes.
For wider vistas, the summit of Fan Brycheiniog provides panoramic views across the Brecon Beacons and South West Wales, perfect for landscape photographers. The area is also known for its wild sheep and occasional sightings of red kites, adding wildlife interest to your shots. Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) is particularly magical, bathing the landscape in warm, soft light.
Even dramatic weather, such as snow-kissed peaks or misty mornings, can create incredibly atmospheric and memorable photographs. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and water.
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