The Black Mountain
6 people attending
4 places left
This walk starts in the Swansea valley / Cwm Tawe. From here we head into Ogof Ffynnon Ddu National Nature Reserve which contains several shake and swallow holes. Once at the top of Fan Gyhirych we head steeply down back into the valley again. We then head over some hills and uneven ground crossing the river Tawe making our way to Llyn y Fan Fawr. This is a lake with potential for paddling or quick dip if time permits. The water is very cold so only go for a dip if you are a confidant swimmer and it is not compulsory to try out the water. We then head up the black mountain and follow the ridge back to the starting point.
This walk sticks to paths most of the time, but in the valleys, we do go through rather rough ground. This means walking boots are a must. The walk has a reasonable amount of accent at 1300 meters and will be a full day. Some may find this challenging and tiring, so be prepared for this. It will however be an enjoyable day and worth it.
Please bring plenty of food and 2 litres of water
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.
Photo Credits: All photos taken by the event leader and permission is granted to OutdoorLads for further use.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 30 plus litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: Waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking. NOT suitable for trainers.
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: No jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Waterproof Trousers
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunscreen in Spring and Summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
A good idea is to bring a change of clothing if the weather is cold and wet to change into for the ride home.
Please refer to the ODL Kit List Guidelines for further information
Food & drink
Please bring at least 2 litres of water and a good sized packed lunch with snacks