Bwlch: Hiking, History and Panoramic Views

Bwlch lies at a natural gap in the landscape through which the A40 runs. The settlement is located on the main road from London to Fishguard, making it a distinctive starting point for a trip where hiking, landscape and history come together. Anyone looking for holiday accommodation in Bwlch can base their choice of holiday location on their planned routes and excursions rather than focusing on a single attraction.

Hiking with different route profiles

One particularly specific option is the third stage of the Beacons Way from Crickhowell to Llangynidr. It is 19 kilometres long, includes 750 metres of ascent and is rated as moderate. The stage can finish in Bwlch or Llangynidr. For planning the day, the distance, elevation gain and possible end point are therefore all important reference points.

Another option is the 11-mile Three Peaks Walk, which passes over three local summits. Bwlch With Altitude, by contrast, follows a scenic circular route with quiz checkpoints and views of the Black Mountains, Llangorse Lake and the central Beacons. The event is designed as a self-guided walk through the hills above Bwlch and Llangorse. Participants then return to Bwlch Village Hall for certificates, results and refreshments.

The Weatherman Walking route through Bwlch also has its own particular focus. It begins at The Star Bunkhouse in Bwlch, explores the Black Mountains and reaches the summit of Cefn Moel, which is marked by a cairn and a stone post. Along the way, there are views of Pen y Fan, Llangorse Lake and the central Beacons. The third stage of the Beacons Way descends from the ridge at Cefn Moel to Bwlch and also offers views of Llangorse Lake.

For further planning, a walking brochure for Llangors and Bwlch is available to visitors, featuring seven walks, photographs and maps. Bwlch is also a starting point for exploring Bannau Brycheiniog National Park on foot. When choosing your accommodation, you can therefore decide whether to focus on a single longer stage, a circular route with navigation points or several different walks.

History and special places

There are also appealing destinations away from the trails. Tretower Court and Castle encompasses 900 years of history, as well as a castle, a manor house, a large barn and a reconstructed medieval garden behind the south wall. The site is an important attraction in the Community of Llanfihangel Cwmdu with Bwlch and Cathedine. The Weatherman Walking route also leads to St Michael and All Angels Church.

Llangorse Lake Crannog is located near Bwlch. The artificial island dates from the late 8th or early 9th century AD; it once housed a high-status residence associated with the king of Brycheiniog. This makes it possible to add a historical excursion to a hiking trip without losing focus on the mountainous landscape.

Getting there and choosing accommodation

To reach Llangorse Riding Centre, turn off the A40 in Bwlch onto the B4560 towards Llangorse. After three miles, follow the road to the right at the signposted turning. Such specific destinations and the different walking formats can help you establish the right pace for your stay: will you plan longer stages, circular routes, historical visits or a combination of several interests?

For additional orientation, you can also view Llanfair Caereinion, Llanbedr, Llangorse, Pontrobert, Cathedine, Garthbrengy, Cwmdu and Pen-y-bont.

For the main travel overview: Powys.