The best running trails around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr
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156
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15
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Jogging routes around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr traverse the upper Tanat Valley in Powys, Wales, an area characterized by steep hills, forests, and river valleys. The region offers diverse terrain for runners, from riverside paths to mountain ascents. Notable features include the Berwyn Mountains and the scenic Lake Vyrnwy, providing varied backdrops for outdoor activities. This landscape ensures a range of running experiences for different fitness levels.
Best jogging routes around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr
- The most popular jogging route is Cadair Berwyn & Moel Sych…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
12
runners
7.81km
01:18
510m
510m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
37
runners
12.2km
01:32
280m
280m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11
runners
6.17km
00:46
210m
200m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
5.69km
00:36
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
7.72km
00:53
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.
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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
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There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building
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Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
There are 17 dedicated running routes around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for all fitness levels.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly jogging routes in the area?
Yes, Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr offers routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Running loop from Llangynog is a moderate 3.5-mile (5.7 km) trail with minimal elevation gain, often completed in about 35 minutes, making it ideal for those new to running or looking for a gentle jog.
Can I find circular running routes near Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
Many of the running routes in the Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr area are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular option is the Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, which offers scenic views around Lake Vyrnwy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails?
The terrain around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr is quite varied, ranging from gentle riverside paths along the River Tanat to challenging ascents in the Berwyn Mountains. You'll find routes through woodlands, around the shores of Lake Vyrnwy, and over rolling upland landscapes, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.
Are there any running routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the region is home to the spectacular Pistyll Rhaeadr, often cited as Britain's highest single-drop waterfall. While not directly on a listed running route, you can find trails in the vicinity that allow you to experience this natural wonder. The Pistyll Rhaeadr itself is a significant highlight to explore.
Are there any running routes with views of Lake Vyrnwy?
Absolutely. Lake Vyrnwy is a prominent feature of the area. The Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr and the View of Lake Vyrnwy loop from Abertridwr both offer stunning vistas of the reservoir and its dam, providing a picturesque backdrop for your run.
What are some notable natural landmarks I might see while running?
Beyond Lake Vyrnwy and Pistyll Rhaeadr, you'll encounter the majestic Berwyn Mountains, with peaks like Cadair Berwyn and Cadair Bronwen offering expansive views. The scenic Tanat Valley itself, with its steep-sided river valleys, is a constant natural landmark. You might also spot the Lake Vyrnwy Dam, a significant man-made monument within the natural landscape.
Are there any challenging running trails for experienced runners?
For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Cadair Berwyn & Moel Sych loop — Berwyn Hills is an excellent choice. This difficult 4.9-mile (7.8 km) trail features significant elevation gain and rewards runners with expansive views across the Berwyn Mountains.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
Runners frequently praise the diverse and scenic landscapes, from tranquil forest paths to challenging mountain ascents. The variety of routes around the Berwyn Mountains, Tanat Valley, and Lake Vyrnwy means there's always something new to explore, and the quiet nature of the area offers a sense of solitude.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on the running routes?
Yes, the natural environment around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr, particularly near Lake Vyrnwy with its RSPB center, offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local fauna while enjoying your run through the forests and along the water.
Is parking available near the running trailheads?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular starting points for routes around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr, especially those near Lake Vyrnwy or villages like Llangynog, typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check route descriptions for specific parking information before you go.
Can I access running routes using public transport?
Access to some trailheads in the Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr area via public transport can be limited due to its rural location. While local bus services connect some villages, direct access to all running route starting points might require a car. Planning your route in advance and checking local transport schedules is recommended.
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