Cadair Berwyn

Cadair Berwyn

Cadair Berwyn Group Walks | Join a Walk

832m Elevation
347m Prominence
Wales Country

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Classifications

Marilyn Sim Hewitt Nuttall County Top (Historic) County Top (Administrative)

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Elevation

832m

2,730 ft

Prominence

347m

Coordinates

52.8806, -3.3810

SJ071323

OS Map

125

Explorer: 255

At the Summit

The summit features a large cairn and a trig point. On a clear day, you might even spot a few sheep admiring the view, pondering their next snack.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky paths and grassy slopes with some boggy patches to keep your wellies busy.

Cadair Berwyn is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, mainly mudstones and sandstones, formed during the Silurian period. The softer layers can create interesting rock formations and some boggier areas.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, you can see across the shimmering waters of Bala Lake, the majestic peaks of Snowdonia, and the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Cadair Berwyn' translates to 'Chair of Berwyn', suggestive of its prominent status in the Berwyn range, perhaps a comfortable seat for the local wildlife.

Historical Significance

Cadair Berwyn holds cultural significance as a hub for ancient myths and legends. Many hikers feel a connection to the landscape, which has been a part of Welsh culture for centuries.

Popular Routes

Cadair Berwyn Circuit via Pistyll Rhaeadr

Moderate

This popular circular route starts at the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Wales. The trail ascends steeply through scenic woodlands before opening out onto the ridge leading to Cadair Berwyn. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Snowdonia, the Shropshire Hills, and the Berwyn range. The return route loops back via the Nant y Llyn valley, passing Llyn Lluncaws, a picturesque mountain lake.

12 km 5 hours

Cadair Berwyn and Cadair Bronwen Ridge Walk

Moderate

This ridge walk begins at the car park near Llandrillo and follows the well-marked Berwyn Way, climbing steadily to Cadair Bronwen. From there, the trail continues along the ridge to Cadair Berwyn, offering stunning views throughout. The descent follows the same path, making it a straightforward yet rewarding out-and-back route.

14.5 km 6 hours

Cadair Berwyn via Moel Sych

Moderate

This route starts from Pistyll Rhaeadr and takes you up through the valley towards Moel Sych. After summiting Moel Sych, the trail continues to Cadair Berwyn, offering a chance to bag two prominent peaks in the Berwyn range. The return route descends via the Nant y Llyn valley, passing Llyn Lluncaws, making for a varied and scenic day out.

10 km 4.5 hours

Cadair Berwyn from Cynwyd

Hard

Starting in the village of Cynwyd, this less-traveled route follows quiet paths and open moorland to reach the summit of Cadair Berwyn. The ascent offers a sense of solitude and wildness, with rewarding views from the top. The return route retraces your steps, providing a straightforward navigation experience.

16 km 7 hours

Cadair Berwyn and Llyn Lluncaws Short Walk

Moderate

This shorter route is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of Cadair Berwyn without committing to a full-day hike. Starting at Pistyll Rhaeadr, it climbs steadily to Llyn Lluncaws, a serene mountain lake nestled below the summit. From here, the trail ascends to Cadair Berwyn before returning via the same path.

8 km 3.5 hours

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park in Llangynog, which typically fills up quickly during busy weekends. Arrive early to snag a space!

Public Transport

Buses run to Llangynog from nearby towns, although service can be infrequent. Check with local transport providers for up-to-date schedules.

Nearby Facilities

There are a couple of quaint cafes in Llangynog where you can grab a cuppa and a slice of cake after your hike. Toilets are available in the village.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of uneven terrain and boggy sections. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for a sudden downpour or a gust of wind that might just take your hat!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

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Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Cadair Berwyn?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cadair Berwyn through the maps

Are there other walkers around Cadair Berwyn?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cadair Berwyn search or of course create your own walk for Cadair Berwyn

Can I organise a walk to Cadair Berwyn?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cadair Berwyn.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Cadair Berwyn?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cadair Berwyn here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible