Pontsticill Reservoir - starts at 10am
20 people attending
0 places left
The Pontsticill Reservoir is situated in the southern edges of the Brecon Beacons, just north of Merthyr Tydfil. The surrounding hills offer fantastic views of some of the Brecon Beacons' highest peaks: Pen-y-Fan, Corn Ddu and Cribyn. Alongside the east bank of the reservoir runs middle section of the narrow gauge Brecon Mountain Railway.
We'll be starting from the car park near the Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre, near the bridge that seperates the Pontsticill and Pentwyn Reservoir. We'll make our along the north and eastern edges of the Pontsticill Reservoir before going through a narrow tunnel under the railway line and up the hill side to Cwm Criban.
We'll make our way across the hills overlooking the reservoir and descend towards the dam at the reservoir's southern edge. Once we're done taking in the views and taking photos, we'll make our way through the woods on the western bank back to the car park.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: will be more comfortable. No Jeans which can be are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential both in mid winter to preserve heat and in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Gloves: essential in frosty weather.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses and Sunscreen: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye. Sunscreen is a must
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Extras to consider: A change of shoes as your boots may get muddy and a bag to put your boots into. If the weather is wet, it is worth considering bring a change of clothing to leave in the car or at least a change of trousers as your walking trousers may get muddy.
Food & drink
Please bring along a packed lunch and any other snacks you would like throughout the walk. You need to bring at least one litre of water for hydration.
There will be no pub stops and there are no amenities near the start point at which you can buy supplies.