Walk 2138 - printer friendly version

Plynlimon Circular Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 5.0 miles / 8.1 km

Ascent - 1100 feet / 333 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference SN799841
Lat 52.4416290 + Long -3.7683270
Postcode SY23 3LE (approx. location only)

This Ceredigion walk visits the summit of Plynlimon (752 m.) in the Cambrian Mountains. The area was considered for National Park status with its often-desolate landscape. The route sees few walkers and it is recommended you carry the relevant OS 1:25000 Explorer map as paths and tracks used for the walk are often ill-defined. The lack of landmarks adds to the need for careful navigation. An alternative route is available at Walk 1304.

The start is Eisteddfa-Gurig car park (grid refSN799841) located on the north side of the A44 east of Aberystwyth. After parking turn right up the farm drive through a gate. Ignore the first track on the left and follow the track as it bends left. Soon the track bends right and heads up a valley. Continue up the valley for 1.5 kilometres to reach an old mine. Just before where the tracks swings right across the Afon Tarrenig, bear left onto a path with adjacent marker post (grid ref. SN796858).

Continue uphill following a grassy track which in places is ill-defined. If in doubt keep heading uphill! After a kilometre you reach the summit of Plynlimon with an OS trig column and a rocky, circular shelter. The view is superb covering much of mid-Wales and parts of Snowdonia (Eryri). If time permits, it is worth exploring the summit area to enjoy different views.

The descent route follows the fence (on your right) south for two kilometres at reach a plantation. The path then continues downhill with the plantation on your right. Reaching a path junction (grid ref. SN786481), turn left and follow a twisting grassy track to pass a large shed (old mine?) on your right. Continue along the track to re-join the outward route. Continue through the yard and turn left back to the car park.

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