Cadair Berwyn from Pistyll Rhaeadr

Mountain Craft Verified. This is the official line used on our guided events, optimised for safety and efficient movement in all weather conditions.

ROUTE OVERVIEW The Berwynion range is the "High Frontier" of Wales and is a vast upland area that holds the highest ground outside of the National Park boundaries. Starting and finishing at the foot of Pistyll Rhaeadr (one of the Seven Wonders of Wales), this 14km loop ascends past the craggy east face of Moel Sych (827m) to traverse the main ridge north to Cadair Berwyn (832m) and the remote top of Cadair Bronwen (783m).

THE TERRAIN A landscape of sweeping scale. Unlike the jagged peaks of central Eryri, the Berwynion are defined by broad, high-level ridges and deep glacial corries. The route involves steep ascents on mixed ground, transitioning into rolling plateaus that offer massive views east towards Shropshire and west towards the Snowdon massif.

CHALLENGE RATING Physically demanding. With nearly 1000m of ascent, this is a serious mountain day comparable to the main Eryri peaks. Navigation can be challenging on the broad plateau in poor visibility, requiring good skills to locate the correct descent lines.

NOTE This route offers a level of solitude hard to find on the more famous peaks. Mountain Craft runs this as a fully guided small group day, perfect for developing navigation skills and mountain pacing. Check our profile for event dates.