4.4
(374)
2,828
hikers
209
hikes
Hikes around Llanbadoc explore the scenic Usk Valley, characterized by rolling farmland and extensive woodlands. The region's network of trails often follows the banks of the River Usk or circuits the large Llandegfedd Reservoir. These routes provide a mix of riverside paths and ascents through fields, offering varied perspectives of the Monmouthshire countryside.
Last updated: August 15, 2026
4.8
(31)
229
hikers
9.75km
02:41
160m
160m
The Llandegfedd Reservoir loop offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 6.1 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of 514 feet (157 metres), typically taking 2 hours and 40 minutes…
5.0
(1)
74
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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24
hikers
3.98km
01:05
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
10.7km
03:00
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(11)
16
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Southern edge of the park, on a bridge over the Brecon & Monmouthshire canal.
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Great place to refuel, serves food till 3pm. Gets busy on the weekends 12-2pm. Good short climbs up and out east or west of the reservoir.
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Be aware that if you come down to the dam on the lake you can't escape through the valley, there's a gate on both of these minor roads coming down off the dam with some very threatening signs. You have to take on one of the bastard ramps, east or west doesn't matter, they're both brutal, though I can imagine eastward is worse.
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By a few lumpy bits they mean a category 4 climb that we faced shortly after a pub stop.
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A lovely place with great views, with a variety of walking trails on offer. The visitors centre on the East shore near the dam wall has toilet and cafe facilities.
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A cool little tree-tunnel along the lane from Coed-y-paen.
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A lovely place with great views, with a variety of walking trails on offer. Please note that the majority of the trails are closed annually from 1st October to 1st March, this is to protect over-wintering wildfowl, for which the area has been designated an SSSI.
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There are over 230 hiking routes to explore around Llanbadoc. The trails offer a great variety, from easy riverside strolls and woodland paths to more challenging ascents with rewarding views of the Usk Valley.
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. The woodlands around the View of Llandegfedd Reservoir – Llandegfedd Visitor Centre loop from Llanbadoc are a popular choice. As you'll be walking through farmland with livestock, it's important to keep your dog on a lead where required.
For a straightforward and enjoyable family outing, the Battle of Pwll Melyn Site – Usk Bridge loop from Usk is an excellent option. It's a relatively flat 3.7-mile (6 km) walk that follows the River Usk, offering plenty of interest for all ages without being too strenuous.
Yes, the region is well-known for its circular walks, many of which have been developed and signposted by the Llanbadoc Community Council. A good example is the View of Llandegfedd Reservoir loop from Coed-y-paen, which provides a pleasant circuit with lovely waterside scenery.
For expansive views, consider a walk that takes you to higher ground. The area around Cefn Ila, a historic estate managed by the Woodland Trust, offers splendid vistas across the Usk Valley. On a clear day, you can even spot the Iron Age hill fort of Twmbarlwm in the distance.
While there are no pubs directly on the immediate local trails, the nearby Sugarloaf and Usk Valley area offers this experience. Many hikers enjoy a route that starts or ends at a traditional pub in the surrounding villages, combining a good walk with refreshments.
The hiking is characterized by the gentle, rolling landscape of the Usk Valley. You'll encounter a mix of riverside paths along the River Usk, trails through beautiful woodlands, and routes across open farmland. Some paths involve moderate ascents that reward you with scenic views.
Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging as Llanbadoc is a small village. The main transport links serve the nearby town of Usk. It's generally more convenient to travel to the area by car to reach the various walk starting points.
Parking for the Llandegfedd Reservoir trails is available at the Llandegfedd Visitor Centre. For the various circular walks starting in and around the villages, on-street parking is often utilized, but please park considerately and respect local residents.
Yes, there are several shorter hikes perfect for a quick outing. The Llandegfedd Visitor Centre – View of Llandegfedd Reservoir loop from Coed-y-paen is under 2.5 miles (4 km) and offers a condensed version of the reservoir's scenery, making it ideal if you're short on time.
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, the scenic beauty of the Usk Valley, and the well-maintained paths around Llandegfedd Reservoir.
Yes, for those seeking more strenuous mountain terrain, Llanbadoc is an excellent base. The Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog) is within easy driving distance and offers a vast expanse of mountains and moorland, including popular peaks like Pen y Fan.


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