Cwar yr Ystrad
Good walks are even better shared.
SO0814 : Cwar yr Ystrad
Trevor Littlewood Photo source
Explore routes near Cwar yr Ystrad
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Pen y Fan via Corn Du from Storey Arms
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Aircraft Crash Site - Wellington Bomber and Vampire Jet (Black mountains)
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Lower Failand–Priors wood
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Failand–Abbots Fish pond–Long Ashton
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
The Ystrad Path
A gentle path that meanders through lovely woodlands before leading to the summit, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed ascent.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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SO0814 : Cwar yr Ystrad
Trevor Littlewood
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SO0814 : Trevil Quarry
andy dolman
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SO0814 : Trevil Quarry
andy dolman
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SO0814 : Trevil Quarry
andy dolman
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
579m
1,900 ft
Prominence
20m
Coordinates
51.8196, -3.3297
SO084142
OS Map
160
Explorer: OL12E
At the Summit
The summit features a modest cairn marking the highest point, providing a perfect photo opportunity, as well as a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.
Terrain & Geology
Cwar yr Ystrad is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, which gives it a distinctive reddish hue. This sedimentary rock formation is popular among geology enthusiasts due to its rich fossil record.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the majestic peaks of Pen y Fan and Corn Du, as well as the beautiful Usk Valley below.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
Cwar yr Ystrad translates to 'The Cross at the Vale', hinting at the historical significance of this route through the valley.
Historical Significance
Historically, this area has been a vital route for local shepherds and has deep connections to the local culture and traditions.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a small car park at SO095136, which is about a 10-minute drive from the nearest major road. Be prepared as spaces fill up quickly during weekends!
Public Transport
Regular buses run from Merthyr Tydfil to the nearby village of Ystradfellte, with a short hike to the start of the Ystrad Path.
Nearby Facilities
The nearest facilities, including a small café and public toilets, are in Libanus. Make sure to stock up on snacks and refreshments before your hike!
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Occasional boggy patches can be encountered along the trail, particularly after rainfall, so good hiking boots are essential. Watch out for sheep, they have the right of way!
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
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Cwar yr Ystrad?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cwar yr Ystrad through the maps
Are there other walkers around Cwar yr Ystrad?
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 Cwar yr Ystrad search or of course create your own walk for Cwar yr Ystrad
Can I organise a walk to Cwar yr Ystrad?
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 Cwar yr Ystrad.
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 Cwar yr Ystrad?
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 Cwar yr Ystrad 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
Community Discussion
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: SO084142
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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