Perched on the border between England and Wales, Monmouthshire is renowned for its lovely landscapes of the Wye Valley and Black Mountains. From national trails taking in the Wales Coastal Path and Offa’s Dyke trail to short circular routes that you can complete on your lunch break, our county is an ideal walking destination. Whatever type of walk you’re searching for; we guarantee that Monmouthshire will have one suitable!
Check out our guide to the best walks in magical Monmouthshire below…
Bluebell Walks at Coed Cefn
Coed Cefn is an enchanted ancient woodland that is positively brimming with fascinating flora and fauna – visit during April or May for a spectacular display of beautiful bluebells. This circular family-friendly trail is great for hiking and walking, taking you on a wonderful loop around the ancient woodland with a rich history. Keep an eye out for the impressive iron age hillfort at Coed Cefn’s centre!
Distance: 1.2 miles
Allow: 30-45 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Llanthony & Hatterall Ridge
The renowned Offa’s Dyke path runs along the border of England and Wales for a whopping 177 miles. This energetic circular walk follows a short section of Offa’s Dyke, meandering in and out of the Brecon Beacons through the stunning Hatterall Ridge. It also takes you to the dramatic ruins of Llanthony Priory, a 12th Century Augustinian abbey. So, fasten your walking boots and get ready for a blood-pumping climb to the top!
Distance: 4.5 miles
Allow: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Llanthony to Crickhowell
Crickhowell is a truly picturesque town that is well worth a visit, with a beautifully quaint bridge crossing the river Usk. This challenging hike crosses three of the four major ridges in the Black Mountains, offering panoramic views over the Usk, Honddu, Grwyne Fawr and Grwyne Fechan valleys. Make sure you have a look inside the ancient Partrishow Church, which dates back to before 1065!
Distance: 11.8 miles
Allow: 6 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Grwyne Fawr Reservoir
This impressive work of engineering was completed in 1928 to supply clean water to the South Wales valleys. Embark upon this simple circular walk around the reservoir – especially impressive in a period of high rainfall. At the top of the dam, stop and have a look over the edge – this is where Prince William and Prince Harry were caught abseiling in 1998 whilst under supervision of their nanny!
Distance: 5 miles
Allow: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Capel-y-Ffin to Twmpa
Sitauted in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, this challenging hike is sure to take your breath away with its steep ascents and awe-inspiring views. The route passes through two northern peaks in the Black Mountains, Rhos Dirion and Twmpa (AKA Lord Hereford’s Knob); encompassing rolling valleys, dramatic mountains, and wild moorland. Enjoy looking out to the valley of Ewyas, the Wye Valley and the Herefordshire countryside beyond.
Distance: 9 miles
Allow: 4 – 4 ½ miles
Difficulty: Hard
Sugar Loaf Mountain
Standing at a modest 596m tall, Sugar Loaf is a truly magical Welsh peak that rises dramatically above Abergavenny. This moderate circular ramble to the summit is accessed by soft slopes, making for a solid workout. The most spectacular views are seen from the south of the summit. If you fancied a longer day out, you could climb the peak directly from the nearby town!
Distance: 5.2 miles
Allow: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Skirrid Fawr
Skirrid Fawr is the Black Mountain’s last outcrop, ascending dramatically from the Gavenny Valley. This energetic trek passes through wonderful woodland into open mountainside, before climbing steeply up to the summit. Discover glorious views in every direction: Herefordshire to the north, the Black Mountains to the west, the Usk Valley to the south and Gloucestershire to the east.
Distance: 4 miles
Allow: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Explore Magical Monnmouthshire with Llanthony Castaway
Our quirky converted railway carriage is perfectly situated to explore the stunning county of Monmouthshire in mid Wales. We are booking up fast for the summer, with only the following dates still available between now and the end of July:
- Monday 30th – Wednesday 1st June
- Monday 13th – Wednesday 15th June
- Friday 8th – Monday 11th July
- Friday 15th – Wednesday 20th July
- Friday 22nd – Monday 25th July
Click here to book your relaxing retreat at Llanthony Castaway today!