NC3721 : North side of Maovally

Maovally

511m Elevation
199m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NC3721 : North side of Maovally

Richard Webb Photo source

Overview

Maovally

Nestled in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons National Park, Maovally rises to an elevation of 537 meters. It’s a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Geology

Maovally is primarily formed from Old Red Sandstone, known for its striking reddish tones. This geological feature not only contributes to the mountain's aesthetic appeal but also supports a unique ecosystem.

Routes

Start from Talybont-on-Usk

A leisurely route that takes you through lush woodlands, perfect for families and casual walkers. The 8.5 km distance generally takes about 3.5 hours to complete and is rated as Moderate.

Ridge Walk from Tor y Foel

For those wanting to elevate their hiking game, this 6.2 km route offers stunning ridge views and should take about 2.5 hours to conquer. It’s rated as Challenging, so wear your best hiking boots!

Summit Features

The summit features a delightful stone cairn and a trig point – both perfect for that all-important Instagram moment. Just don't forget to enjoy the view too!

Terrain Type

Expect a mixed bag of rocky and grassy terrain, along with an occasional boggy patch. As the saying goes, don't let it catch you with your boots off!

Views

From the summit, Maovally offers glorious views of the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains in the distance. On a clear day, you might spot the shimmering Bristol Channel. Spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best times for stunning vistas.

Hazards

While the trails offer beautiful views, they can also be treacherous. Be cautious of steep, slippery sections, especially post-rain. Fog can roll in quickly, so bring a map and compass just in case you find yourself in a pea soup.

Nearby Summits

  • Waun Fach (811 meters)
  • Sugar Loaf (596 meters)

Access

Nearest Parking

Plenty of spots at Talybont-on-Usk village offer a starting point for your adventure.

Public Transport

You can catch local bus services from Brecon, especially during weekends. Check before you travel!

Nearest Town

The quaint Talybont-on-Usk provides a friendly base for your hiking expedition.

Facilities

After your hike, a well-deserved cuppa awaits you at one of the local cafes, alongside public toilets in the village.

History

Name Meaning

The exact origin of the mountain's name remains a subject of local lore and speculation, adding to the mystique of Maovally.

Significance

Having been a gem of this region for generations, Maovally has cultivated a reputation for both its natural beauty and historical agricultural practices.

So lace up your boots and prepare for a day of exploration and breathtaking views at Maovally!

Explore routes near Maovally

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Ben Klibreck

16.9 km ~8h 20m Moderate

View route

Loch Migdale from Torroy: Spinningdale pinewood and loch shore walk

7.6 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Fairy Lochs Liberator Wreckage Circuit

4.9 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Beinn Eighe Lancaster Wreckage at Coire Mhic Fhearchair

16 km ~6h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Start from Talybont-on-Usk

A scenic route leading through lush woodlands and up a gradual slope to the summit, perfect for a leisurely hike.

8.5 km ~3.5 hours Moderate

Ridge Walk from Tor y Foel

A slightly challenging route that follows the ridge line, offering stunning panoramic views while making your calves sing.

6.2 km ~2.5 hours Challenging
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Highland Five

Elevation

511m

1,677 ft

Prominence

199m

Coordinates

58.1499, -4.7574

NC378212

OS Map

16

Explorer: 440N

At the Summit

The summit features a small stone cairn and a trig point which doubles as an excellent spot for a selfie, if you're into that.

Terrain & Geology

A mix of rocky and grassy terrain with the occasional boggy patch to keep you on your toes.

The mountain is predominantly composed of Old Red Sandstone, which gives it a reddish hue and provides a unique habitat for various flora and fauna.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can enjoy sweeping views of the Brecon Beacons and the distant Black Mountains, not to mention a clear day reveals the glimmer of the Bristol Channel.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Maovally' likely derives from local dialect, referencing the geographical features of the area, though precise etymology is a bit of a mystery.

Historical Significance

Historically, the region has been significant for its agricultural practices and its natural beauty, drawing visitors and adventurers alike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is parking available at Talybont-on-Usk village with easy access to the hiking trails.

Public Transport

Check the local bus services that run from Brecon; some services do operate on weekends.

Nearby Facilities

Public toilets and a couple of cafes can be found in Talybont-on-Usk, perfect for a post-hike cuppa.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of steep, slippery sections, particularly after rainfall. Visibility can be poor in fog, and navigation skills may be required.

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 Maovally?

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

Are there other walkers around Maovally?

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 Maovally search or of course create your own walk for Maovally

Can I organise a walk to Maovally?

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 Maovally.

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 Maovally?

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 Maovally 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

Location

Maovally location map

Grid reference: NC378212

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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