Welcome to Day 3 of our UK road trip tales which took us hiking Pen Y Fan. This post can be read individually, but if you prefer to start from the beginning then feel free to catch up from here.
Breakfast in Cardiff
After spending a peaceful night in Newport, we were all geared up for an exciting day of hiking. Newport, situated about 20 km from Cardiff, served as a perfect launchpad for our day’s adventure. Eager to start the day right, we decided to head to Cardiff for breakfast. Despite adding a bit of a detour to our route, the prospect of a hearty English breakfast was too tempting to pass up.
Elmer’s Café in Cardiff was our chosen spot, known for its authentic local vibe and delicious food. As we enjoyed our typical English breakfast – eggs, bacon, sausages, and all the trimmings – we felt energized and ready to tackle the hike. By 9:30 am, we were back on the road, heading straight to Pont ar Daf, the starting point for our hike up Pen y Fan.
The Hike
Arriving at Pont ar Daf, we noticed that the parking lot was undergoing construction, which turned out to be a small blessing – there were no parking fees. Despite our early start, the lot was already buzzing with fellow hikers and almost full. It was clear that Pen y Fan is a popular spot, especially on such a clear day.
The hike itself was nothing short of exhilarating. As we embarked on the trail, the cool May weather served as our ally, making the ascent enjoyable. The path’s gradual incline presented a steady challenge, but it was one we were more than ready to tackle. We grabbed our gear, especially our hiking poles, and set out with enthusiasm.
Our goal was to reach both Pen y Fan and Corn Du summits. The entire route, covering about a 4-mile round trip, took us around 3-4 hours. It’s a testament to the trail’s accessibility that even non-avid hikers like us could enjoy the journey without feeling overwhelmed. The hike was interspersed with short breaks, allowing us to catch our breath and take in the sweeping views.
The summit of Pen y Fan was a highlight of the hike. There is an elevated platform that offers a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the moment of triumph at the peak. Despite a queue, the wait was brief, no more than 10 minutes, and it was absolutely worth it for that iconic summit snapshot, with the vast Welsh landscape as our backdrop.
Reaching the top was a moment of pure awe. The panoramic vistas from both Pen y Fan and Corn Du were nothing short of spectacular, offering a bird’s-eye view of the Welsh landscape – a patchwork of green hills and valleys stretching into the horizon. It was a humbling and invigorating experience, reminding us of nature’s grandeur.
A key tip for those planning to hike Pen y Fan: pack essentials like warm clothing, snacks, water, and don’t forget sunscreen. Despite the cool air, the sun’s rays can be quite strong, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes.
The descent, while quicker, was a bit of a challenge, particularly on our knees. This is where our hiking poles proved invaluable. They offered much-needed stability and support, making the downward journey smoother and more comfortable.
Checkout the highlights of Day 3 below:
Shawarma in Innsworth
By 5 pm, we were back at our car, feeling a blend of accomplishment and awe. The drive to Innsworth offered us a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s events. As we talked about the hike, the exhilaration of reaching the summit, and the stunning views we’d witnessed, the excitement for what lay ahead was palpable.
Our arrival in Innsworth brought an unexpected culinary delight. We stumbled upon George’s Kebab, a local food truck known for its delicious shawarma. It was a take-out only spot, but the shawarma was simply awesome. It’s these little discoveries that add an extra layer of joy to traveling. Tired yet content, we relished our dinner, a perfect end to an adventurous day.
With our tummies full and spirits high, we began to look forward to the next day’s journey – a road trip through the charming Cotswolds. These moments of relaxation and good food are as much a part of the adventure as the hikes and the drives. Stay tuned for more stories from our UK road trip, as we explore the picturesque villages and landscapes of the Cotswolds!
