Really looking forward to this one. A full day out in the hills, a cold dip, and a good mix of challenge and connection. You’ll find everything below to help you feel prepared. 

Final Actions (Do This First)

Please reply to adam@strongerwithout.uk by Wednesday 26 June to:

  • Confirm your place

  • Tell me if you’re camping Friday or Saturday

  • Ask any questions about gear, fitness or logistics

Hike Overview A beautiful loop across ridgelines, past a reservoir, with big views and a cold river dip to finish.

Route: Pen Y Gadair Fawr, Waun Fach & Grwyne Fawr Circular

Link to map: View on Komoot

Distance: 15km (9.3 miles)

Elevation gain: 460m

Estimated time: ~7 hours total

Difficulty: Moderate – steady climbs, varied terrain, remote trail

Key Info

Event Date: Sunday 29 June 2025

Meeting point: Mynydd Du Car Park and Picnic Area

General postcode: NP7 7NT

Meeting time: 08:45 for a 09:00 start

Finish: Around 17:00

Note: The road is remote and rough in places, please drive carefully and allow extra time. There is plenty of parking available.

Day Schedule

TimeActivity

08:45: Arrive, intros & safety brief

09:00: Start hike – gradual climb, steady pace

12:30: Summit lunch (weather dependent)

14:00: Descent with scenic ridge walk

15:30: Cold river dip (optional but epic – bring swimwear!)

17:00: Return to cars, group reflection & finish

What to Bring

Do not show up without:

  • Worn-in walking boots or shoes

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Backpack

  • Warm layer (fleece or down)

  • Hat & gloves (even in summer)

  • 2+ litres of water

  • Packed lunch + snacks

  • Sunscreen + sunglasses

  • First aid kit / any personal meds

Highly recommended:

  • Swimwear + towel (for cold dip)

  • Flask of tea/coffee

  • Spare socks

  • Drybag or plastic bag for wet kit

Optional Wild Camping (Fri/Sat)

If you want to extend the weekend, I’ll be staying here: Cwmdu Campsite, Crickhowell NP8 1RU

£22 for 2 nights (no electric hook-up)

Website Google Maps pin

How to get there:

  • Set satnav for ‘Cwmdu, Crickhowell’ (not the postcode)

  • Drive through the village until you see The Farmers Arms pub on your right

  • Turn right at the pub, then take the immediate next right

  • The campsite is 400m up on the right

Don’t rely on the postcode, it’ll send you off-road and off-track.

I'll be around Friday and Saturday evenings (27 & 28 Jun). I’m out for a long run on Saturday daytime but up for chats and a brew in the morning or evening if you’re camping too.

Safety, Consent & Contact

This is a voluntary group hike in a remote mountain environment. I’ll be leading the route, but each person is responsible for their own safety, food, water, and kit. The wild swim is optional and should be approached with care and self-awareness.

By replying to confirm, you:

  • Acknowledge you are physically able to complete the hike

  • Understand the risks involved

  • Accept full personal responsibility for participation

My mobile on the day: +44 7307 846006

Final Note

Whether you’re feeling confident or uncertain, you’re welcome here. This is about showing up as you are, getting out into wild places, and finishing stronger together.

If you have any questions at all, just reply. You don’t need to be ultra-fit. Just up for a proper day out, with a bit of leg burn and cold water courage.

Reply now to confirm your spot. I can’t wait to share this with you.

Stronger,

Adam

Stronger Without