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With the weather forecast looking good, I chose Cefn Yr Ystrad for my first walk of the year.
despite major roadworks on the A465 and a 25 mile diversion, I arrived at my starting point of the Pontsticill Reservoir for 0930 hours. Parking is limited in the area and I only just managed to park on the Dam, South East corner of the reservoir.
- Parking available on South East Corner
My route was to be a straight up to the summit and retrace my steps down.
Walking South, away from the reservoir, down the minor road for a couple of hundred yards. There is a large metal gate on your left opposite the Treatment works.
- Signposted path
An old path leads you uphill through another gate before you pass under a bridge for the Miniature Railway.
- Miniature Railway bridge
The path continues up offering great views of the reservoir and the Brecons.
- Pontsticill Reservoir
Continuing onwards and upwards I came to a small gate in the stone wall. I turned left here, continuing over the grassy moor passing the site of the old Aberciban quarry.
- Aberciban Quarry
Before long I was on the main bridleway and was able to see the summit cairns.
- Summit Cairn - Carn Y Bugail
Within 10 minutes I was at the Trig point. After taking an obligatory picture and wandering over to the two ancient Cairns of Bugail and Felen, it was time to head down.
- Cefn Yr Ystrad Trip Point
It was surprising that despite the amount of cars in the area I was the only one on the hill. I did not see another walker until I reached the small gate.
The route took me approximately two hours. As you can see the weather was superb.
On returning to my car, I put the jetfoil on for a brew. A passing cyclist stopped for a chat. He informed me that there was a cafe a couple of hundred yards further up.
I had a wonder up the road. It is in fact a station for the miniature railway. You can purchase hot drinks and snacks, more importantly they have toilet facilities. There was no opening/closing signs, but would presume it is seasonal.