Advanced Wales - Hiking
Country
Wales
Region
Snowdonia, Brecon Beacons
Theme
Classic
6
Days
5
Nights
Accommodation
4*
Across the mountainous beating heart of Wales.
This is a serious walking journey through the strongest mountain landscapes in Wales. Designed for confident hikers, it connects the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), before pushing on to the bold, sculpted peaks of Eyri (Snowdonia). With expert guidance, flexible planning and a keen eye on the weather, we shape each day to get the very best from the mountains.
Highlights
- Summit three iconic Beacons peaks in a single day
- Walk to the very source of the River Severn
- Conquer Yr Wyddfa, the highest mountain in Wales
- Explore the sculpted drama of the Glyders
- Stay in characterful, independently owned Welsh hotels
- Travel with expert local guides, who are tuned to the pace and vibe of the group
Handpicked Accommodation
The Felin Fach Griffin, Brecon
A characterful country inn with calm, comfortable rooms and a dining room that quietly sets the benchmark in this part of Wales. I
Why we chose it
The food here is a highlight, with locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes that showcase the region’s flavours.
Penmaenuchaf Hall Hotel, Dolgellau
A grand yet relaxed country house with generous spaces, elegant bedrooms and views that stretch deep into the Snowdonia landscape. After a day in the mountains, guests can unwind in the luxurious rooms or enjoy a drink by the roaring fire in the lounge.
Why we chose it
It’s the perfect base to rest and recharge before tackling the next peak.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Introduction to Wales in Abergavenny
We meet in Abergavenny in time for lunch, easing into the adventure with introductions and a gentle wander through this vibrant market town – perhaps stopping for a first taste of Bara Brith or a ‘fresh of the griddle’ Welsh Cake. This afternoon we stretch our legs on Sugar Loaf, a perfect opening climb with wide views across the Usk Valley – a chance to find our pace and shake off travel. A short transfer brings us to our hotel near Brecon, where dinner and a relaxed evening set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2 – The Horseshoe Walk
Today’s itinerary is a Brecon Beacons rite of passage. After breakfast, we head straight into the high ground of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, linking Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big in a large horseshoe. The walking is bold and open, with long ridgelines and if the weather is on our side, far-reaching views. Pen y Fan, at 886 metres, is the highest peak in southern Britain and has long been used as a training ground by elite military units. We descend into Brecon for lunch, followed by free time to explore the town’s independent shops and riverside paths.
Day 3 – Hafren Forest and the Source of the Severn
We travel north into the quiet heart of Wales, arriving at Hafren Forest. From here we hike to the source of the River Severn, a modest spring high on the slopes of Plynlimon that grows into Britain’s longest river. A picnic lunch in the forest marks a reflective midpoint to the journey. This afternoon we continue on to Eyri (Snowdonia), where our country house hotel welcomes us for a restful evening.
Day 4 – Yr Wyddfa, Roof of Wales
Today we meet the giant of Welsh mountains. Setting out from Pen y Pass, we climb Yr Wyddfa, known as Snowdon in English, following one of our favourite routes to the summit before descending past clear glacial lakes. Weather always has a voice here, and we plan with care. Should conditions change, the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway offers a memorable alternative descent. Built in 1896, it remains the only public rack and pinion railway in the UK. However we return, the sense of achievement is unmistakable.
Day 5 – The Glyderau
After a hearty Welsh breakfast, we climb Glyder Fawr, one of Snowdonia’s most characterful peaks, known for its lunar rock formations and dramatic scenery. For those keen to extend the challenge, a detour to Tryfan promises a real sense of adventure – scramble included! We return to the hotel with time to rest, reflect and prepare for a farewell dinner that celebrates the week’s achievements.
Day 6 – Farewells and onward travel
With the walking complete, there’s time for one final breakfast as a group before a transfer to Bangor for onward travel.
Itinerary Designer
With this tour I wanted to create a sense of momentum. By the time you reach Snowdonia, your legs are ready for the challenge!
Harvey
Featured Experience
Walking to the source of the River Severn
Few walks capture the spirit of Wales like the journey to the source of the River Severn. Starting beneath the trees and climbing into open ground, shaped by the weather, you can sense myth and legend on the air.