The majesty of Pen-y-Fan
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Winter months can deter the crowds, but Ruth Harrison thinks that this is the perfect time to begin the uplifting challenge of hiking in the mountains When it is bitterly cold outside, you can be forgiven for wanting to curl up in front of the television watching a re-run of an old movie or the highlights from the week’s football. But nothing will make you feel more alive than a winter walk. This weekend, dig out your walking boots from the back of your wardrobe, dust down your thermals and find your matching hat, scarf and gloves and head outside to experience the Earth’s most thrilling drama – the mountains. Pen-y-Fan is Britain’s highest, most southerly summit. Standing magnificently at 2,907ft high, it is nestled within the realms of the glorious Brecon Beacons National Park. Approaching from the south, the mountains appear subtle and surmountable; it is only when you begin the ascent that the way ahead becomes thrilling. Leaving the car behind you, the path is well-trodden and easy to climb,
perfect for the first walk of the year. With each step, the glaciated valleys open up beneath you, giving way to breathtaking, panoramic views of the Welsh Valleys. As you gain altitude, the crisp, clear air and icy trails add to the drama of these mountains. The ascent is steep and you may find yourself slightly out of breath, but upon reaching the summit, any discomfort you may have felt on the approach will be dispelled. The table-topped summit beneath you extends out into the distance, the four sharp ridges clawing their way towards the horizon. A multitude of spectacular views extend as far as the Bristol Channel, Shropshire and the rest of the Brecon Beacons. Without the bustling crowds of the summer months, the winter brings a peaceful calm to these graceful mountains and to the walkers who have braved the climb – a drama which is most certainly worth repeating.
Photo: younger2007 @ Flickr
Pamper yourself Spoil yourself after a hard day’s walking and stay at the Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel & Spa. Have your aches massaged away and relax in an award-winning restaurant and bar.
Be prepared Low cloud can quickly descend into the valleys causing the temperature to drop throughout the year, so it is important to wrap up warm and to let someone know
where you have gone before setting off. For further information about weather, routes or accommodation in the Brecon Beacons, visit: www.breconbeaconstourism.co.uk
Nant Ddu Lodge Hotel Cwm Taf, Near Merthyr Tydfil Powys, CF48 2HY Tel: (01685) 379111 www.nant-ddu-lodge.co.uk