Highlight • Natural
The Punchbowl Lake
Hiking
5.0
(164)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
February 12, 2020
Hiking
October 16, 2020
Hiking
October 31, 2018
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Punchbowl Lake
4.7
(121)
634
hikers
11.0km
03:12
300m
300m
Embark on The Blorenge circular from Keeper's Pond for a moderate hike offering diverse terrain and sweeping vistas. This 6.8-mile (11.0 km) route, with an elevation gain of 984 feet (300 metres), typically takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes to complete. You will traverse gravel paths, grassy sections, and rocky trails, leading you to the summit of Blorenge where you can enjoy panoramic views across the Usk Valley, the Black Mountains, and the iconic Sugar Loaf.
When planning your visit, be aware that some sections of the trail can be overgrown, so wearing appropriate walking boots and long trousers is recommended to navigate rocky terrain and avoid stinging nettles. The summit can be very windy and exposed, so pack extra layers, especially on cooler days. Keeper's Pond, the starting point, is a tranquil beauty spot popular for picnics and wild swimming, making it a pleasant place to begin or end your adventure.
This trail is notable for its rich industrial history, with Keeper's Pond originally serving as a forge water supply in the early 19th century. As you hike, you will encounter remnants of old tram roads and quarries, reflecting the area's past within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site. The route also showcases unique natural features like the Punchbowl, an unusual shape formed by glacial erosion, adding to the varied landscape of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
4.6
(21)
100
hikers
6.14km
02:07
320m
320m
Embark on The Punchbowl loop from Llanfoist Wharf, a moderate hike that guides you through tranquil beechwoods and along green lanes. You'll follow level canal paths beside the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal before ascending to The Punchbowl Lake, a serene man-made lake nestled in a wooded cwm. This 3.8-mile (6.1 km) route involves a steady climb of 1057 feet (322 metres), offering expansive views of the Black Mountains, Sugar Loaf, and Skirrid as you gain elevation. Plan for about 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete this rewarding journey.
Start your hike from Llanfoist Wharf, where you'll find accessible initial sections along the canal and old railway paths. While generally well-maintained, be mindful that some paths can become slippery, especially on the downhill stretches approaching The Punchbowl. A good level of fitness and sure-footedness will help you navigate the varied terrain and enjoy the steady ascent comfortably. Always check local conditions before you set out.
Beyond its natural beauty, this loop offers a glimpse into the region's rich industrial past. As you traverse the route, you'll encounter remnants of an early 19th-century tramway system, providing a unique historical context to your outdoor adventure. The Punchbowl Lake itself, a man-made feature within a glacial cwm, adds another layer of interest to this distinctive trail in Brecon Beacons National Park.
4.5
(22)
101
hikers
22.6km
06:45
640m
640m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 290 m
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Today
Tuesday 16 June
19°C
13°C
85 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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