The best walks and hikes in Carmarthenshire

There are over 350 hiking routes to explore in Carmarthenshire. They range from easy family-friendly paths to challenging mountain ascents in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, offering something for every ability level.

The trails in Carmarthenshire are highly regarded by the komoot community, with thousands of hikers exploring the area. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline and quiet woodlands to the rugged mountain ridges.

Yes, the Cwm Lliedi Lower Reservoir — Swiss Valley loop is an excellent choice. It's a gentle 5.2 km walk around the reservoir that's suitable for all ages and offers a peaceful, scenic experience.

Dogs are welcome on many trails, but it's important to be responsible. In areas with livestock, especially in the Brecon Beacons and coastal paths, you must keep your dog on a lead. Forest trails, such as those in Brechfa Forest, often provide more freedom for well-behaved dogs away from farm animals.

Carmarthenshire is on the edge of 'Waterfall Country'. A popular nearby destination is Henrhyd Falls, the highest waterfall in South Wales, which you can even walk behind. The area offers several trails through a scenic wooded valley to reach the falls.

For a demanding day out, the Llyn Brianne Reservoir loop is a great option. This 23.7 km route involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with stunning, remote scenery around the reservoir in the Cambrian Mountains.

The Carmarthenshire section of the Wales Coast Path offers a mix of sandy beaches, salt marshes, and clifftop views. For a walk with historical interest, the Dylan Thomas loop around Laugharne combines coastal scenery with the town's cultural heritage.

Yes, the Talley Abbey loop is a beautiful 4.4 km walk that takes you through woodlands and past the ruins of the 12th-century abbey, offering a perfect blend of nature and history.

The western part of the Brecon Beacons, known as the Black Mountain, offers some of the most dramatic hikes. A great moderate route is the Herbert's Quarry to Garreg Las loop, which takes you into the wild, open moorland of the national park.

The Herbert's Quarry & Garreg Lwyd loop is a short but rewarding 3 km hike. It climbs to the summit of Garreg Lwyd, offering expansive views across the Black Mountain landscape for relatively little effort.

Carmarthenshire has excellent forest walks. Abergorlech Forest is a popular spot with several well-marked trails of varying difficulty that wind along the Gorlech River. It's a great place for a sheltered walk on a windy day.