As the highest peak within the Brecon Beacons (886 metres) Pen y Fan is often a focal point for visitors - and is certainly worth a visit. The Brecon Beacons National Park however covers an area of 520 square miles and there are lots of other locations worth exploring.
Within the National Park there are at least forty-eight trig points (fixed surveying stations) - and I have walked to all of them. Most of the trig points were positioned on hilltops in order to be functional and visible - and a walk to these is usually rewarded by spectacular views. These walks also have the advantage of being considerably less crowded than a walk to Pen y Fan is likely to be.
The southern area of the Brecon Beacons National Park is well known for its waterfalls, many of which are within easy walking distance of Penderyn. The nearest of them is Sgwd yr Eira which it is possible to walk behind. A walk can also take in Porth yr Ogof – The White Horse Cave.
The foothills of Corn Ddu and Pen y Fan - the main peaks of the Brecon Beacons National Park – can be reached with a 10 minute drive, as can the Garwnant Forestry Centre.
A bit further afield are Brecon Mountain Centre; the Brecon Beacons Mountain Railway; Dan-yr-Ogof Show Caves; Llangorse Lake and a host of other visitor attractions.
Penderyn Whisky Distillery is virtually next door!
