The Vale of Ewyas from Abergavenny
A strenuous walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) in national park Brecon Beacons in Monmouthshire (Sir Fynwy), Wales, about 33.40km (20.75 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 13:45h (1 overnight stay). It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
1339m (4393ft)
Descent
1350m (4429ft)
Max. Elevation
570m (1870ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
2689m (8822ft)
Start & End
Abergavenny
Distance
33.40km
(20.75mi)
(20.75mi)
Duration
~13:45h
Difficulty
Strenuous
Ordnance Survey Map
This two-day walk combines some of the highlights of the eastern Brecon Beacons. Starting from Abergavenny, the route weaves through the hills and valleys north of the town before reaching the Offa's Dyke path above the beautiful Vale of Ewyas. There's options for wild camping on the next ridge over, where you can listen to owls as the sun sets. Day two returns to the town via the ever popular Sugar Loaf.
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Waypoints
OS Grid SO304136
From the train station turn left and then right at the end of the road into town.
OS Grid SO296149
It's a bit of a hike through the town to be honest, but beyond the shopping street, head for Hill Road.
About 1.58 km (~0.98 miles) from 
OS Grid SO290166
The road climbs steeply out of the town before reaching the edge of the woods. Follow the path heading through them.
About 1.76 km (~1.09 miles) from 
OS Grid SO290176
The woods give way to open hillside. Follow the ridge along Deri, admiring Sugar Loaf to your left.
About 1.06 km (~0.66 miles) from 
OS Grid SO284196
At the end of the ridge, take the path heading down the northeast shoulder of Sugar Loaf.
About 2.02 km (~1.26 miles) from 
OS Grid SO287205
There's a short switchback on the road, which leads you gently uphill heading east-northeast.
About 1.01 km (~0.63 miles) from 
OS Grid SO293209
The road leads to a lane. Take the left fork down into Cwm Coedycerrig, which has a small nature reserve at the bottom. A very pleasant little spot.
About 0.65 km (~0.4 miles) from 
OS Grid SO301214
Beyond a very smart looking house, take the path through the grounds and into another woodland.
About 0.97 km (~0.6 miles) from 
OS Grid SO302218
This is a good lunch spot for day one, with several trees for sitting under.
About 0.38 km (~0.24 miles) from 
OS Grid SO299225
Across another road, take the footpath immediately opposite. It's not well used, so beware the nettles.
About 0.76 km (~0.47 miles) from 
OS Grid SO303240
Pass through Cwmyoy and take the path heading up the valley. Beyond a couple of remote farms, you reach the open access land on the edge of Hatterrall Hill.
About 1.50 km (~0.93 miles) from 
OS Grid SO299247
Follow the rough track through the boggy high ground to reach the Offa's Dyke Path that runs along the ridge.
About 0.77 km (~0.48 miles) from 
OS Grid SO307270
Enjoy the views into the Vale of Ewyas as you walk along the ridge, before taking the Beacons Way into the valley. If you're enjoying the view, you can continue a bit and drop down later.
About 2.43 km (~1.51 miles) from 
OS Grid SO287278
Descend into Llanthony, the impressive ruined abbey looming into view as you approach. There is a campsite in the village (and a pub) if you want somewhere cosy to camp.
About 2.16 km (~1.34 miles) from 
OS Grid SO273267
Otherwise continue along the Beacons Way up Cwm-bwchel to reach the ridge for a glorious wild campsite.
About 1.78 km (~1.11 miles) from 
OS Grid SO280255
The second day begins by following the ridge line south, with more great views into the Vale of Ewyas.
About 1.43 km (~0.89 miles) from 
OS Grid SO283227
It's a slow and steady descent into the valley - ideal after a long first day.
About 2.80 km (~1.74 miles) from 
OS Grid SO285211
Continue through the hamlet of Pentwyn, passing nearby to yesterday's route. But instead head west to approach Sugar Loaf.
About 1.66 km (~1.03 miles) from 
OS Grid SO280205
The lane leads up onto the northern flanks of Sugar Loaf. That easy morning will feel a long time ago as you bash through the bracken on the steep slopes.
About 0.72 km (~0.45 miles) from 
OS Grid SO279194
It's a fair old slog for a mere 442m of height, but as you gain the northeast shoulder there's a clear track to the summit.
About 1.11 km (~0.69 miles) from 
OS Grid SO272187
It's a well-worn and well-loved summit, and there are likely to be several others about. But you can enjoy the fact that few will have had such a circuitous or enjoyable approach.
About 0.96 km (~0.6 miles) from 
OS Grid SO280171
A choice of descents - you can head through the woods of the valley or take the more direct route along Rholben.
About 1.80 km (~1.12 miles) from 
OS Grid SO287159
Follow the waymarked route back into Abergavenny.
About 1.41 km (~0.88 miles) from 
Abergavenny againOS Grid SO297145
As you'd expect in a walkers' town, there are lots of good pubs in Abergavenny. Try the King's Arms near the centre. Just remember it's another 15 mins to the station - leave enough time to get the train!
About 1.68 km (~1.04 miles) from 
