Walk: Sugar Loaf Mountain, Monmouthshire
In its relatively modest 596m, the summit of Sugar Loaf in the Brecon Beacons National Park encompasses much that is magical about mountains, hills and woodland – explore this wonderful Welsh peak with a five-mile circular walk
Rising above Abergavenny, the pinched peak is accessed by soft slopes on all sides, making for a solid and consistent workout whichever angle you approach from.
However, it’s the south that offers the most interest, and if you fancied a longer day you could ascend the peak directly from town.
1. A sweet start
Beginning at the scenically placed car park on the peak’s southern slopes, follow the grassy path north-west.
2. Contouring paths
Continue over a crossroad of paths, ignoring any tracks that break off to the right. After a mile, drop down into woodland. Cross the stream before contouring round the peak to a path that leads directly up its western side.
3. Welsh views
Climbing eastwards, you’ll soon reach the trig point at summit of Sugar Loaf. The moderately stiff ascent rewards with panoramic views of Wales’ Black Mountains.
4. A gentle descent
Leave the summit via the south-westerly path, which will bend round to south-south-east and rejoin your ascent route within a couple of miles.
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Main image ©Getty
