The highest point in the Cambrian Mountains is Pen Pumlumon Fawr at an elevation of 752m. It is part of the Pumlumon massif that has 5 named summits which maybe once had beacons, hence the name. The height is retained at above 600m for nearly 10km across the top, of which we walked 7.5km. Pumlumon never fails to give its best - a remote but magical and spiritual place that always leaves you feeling very happy. Our walk was a linear 22km from Dyffryn Castell to Dylife. The forecast was light rain all day and southwesterly winds at 20mph so we were well prepared for our long mountain day where shelter is limited. Access points are also very limited so everyone had to be competent and confident that they were ready for this experience. As it turned out we didn't get a spot of rain. It was windy but the wind blew the clouds away at the right moment to reveal the spectacular views. On reaching the ridge we could see the sea and down to Nant-y-moch Reservoir. We reached the summit in good time for our first half lunch and then striding out across the top we acknowledged the Source of the Wye on the way. We had fabulous views of the Hafren Forest and beyond, and down to Hengwm looking the other way. The weather was kind and because everyone was 100% we walked over Pumlumon Arwystli where there are 3 more large Bronze Age cairns and also detoured slightly to see the Source of the Severn before rejoining our route. Our second half lunch was at Cairn Fawr before descending down into the Hengwm Valley which was as magnificent as ever. Even more blue sky by this time, well timed on our arrival at the two lakes making idyllic camera shots. It is track much of the way back from here passing Glaslyn and the beautiful old mining valley of Clywedog. On reaching the Bryn Walking minibus we had flasks of coffee (thankfully still hot) and biscuits waiting for us. A fabulous day with fantastic company - all experiencing one of the most beautiful places, that is right on our doorstep.
Thank you to everyone who took part.
7 Comments
Wendy
2/8/2023 19:10:15
Cheers Helen. A great summary of a truly brilliant day. It was extraordinary really how fast it went for a nine hour walk. That’s testament to the group I feel as we just bumble along chatting to whoever is walking alongside us.
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Helen
2/8/2023 20:32:47
Absolutely. It was so relaxed and so nice to take in our surroundings and appreciate every little bit.
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Sarah
3/8/2023 15:23:31
A great day, one that I hope to repeat. It was my first day out and the group was incredibly welcoming. The hours flew by!
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Helen
4/8/2023 08:40:59
That is really is lovely to hear. A great walk for your first one with the group. Very pleased you joined, everyone welcomes new faces. Looking forward to seeing you again soon.
Louise Bufton
3/8/2023 17:49:35
Fab day with a lovely group of ladies. Thank you!
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Helen
4/8/2023 08:51:22
It was indeed, what a fun and happy day.
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AuthorHelen Menhinick - Mountain Leader Archives
October 2023
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