Cambrian Way

The place

Long distance footpath in Wales

Why go

Brecon Beacons and Pen y Fan. Pistyll Rhaeadr (highest waterfall in Wales). Cadair Idris (seat of the giant Idris in Welsh legend). Snowdon summit via the Rhyd Ddu path. Conwy Castle (UNESCO). The sheer variety of Welsh landscape from industrial south to mountainous north.

A bit of history

Devised by Tony Drake of the Ramblers' Association in the 1970s and formally described in a 1978 guide, the Cambrian Way is one of the most challenging unofficial walking routes in Britain. It was never given national trail status but has been promoted by Cambrian Way Ltd since 2005.

Getting there

Cardiff: well-connected hub (airport, trains from London Paddington 2h). Conwy: train from Chester (30 min) or Holyhead (45 min).

Recommended gear

Full mountain boots. Map and compass (OS 1:25,000). Emergency bivouac. Trekking poles. Full waterproofs. Head torch.

Best season

May to October. June and September optimal. Winter hazardous above 500 m.