Walking the Cambrian Way

Classic Wales mountain trek
south to north from Cardiff to Conwy

Described as "the mountain connoisseurs' walk", the Cambrian Way crosses the mountainous heartland of Wales to link the mighty castles of Cardiff and Conwy.

The 298 mile route passes through the Brecon Beacons National Park, traversing the iconic Pen Y Fan, then continues through the Carmarthen Vans and past lush meadows around Llandovery. It crosses the wild and remote countryside of Elenydd and the summit of Pumlumon to enter Snowdonia National Park and, after Dinas Mawddwy, there is superb ridge walking and a challenging traverse of Cadair Idris, followed by the unyielding Rhinog Fach and Rhinog Fawr. Views open up of the highest peaks of Wales commanded by Snowdon itself - the Cambrian Way finishes at Conwy with its spectacular castle on the north coast.

• requires a good level of fitness, combined with experience of mountain walking; navigation skills are essential
• the southern and middle sections should be possible in all seasons but the Rhinog mountains and Snowdonia are best tackled in spring and autum