I’ve been lucky enough to have been gorge walking in the Brecon Beacons or gorge scrambling, as some people call it, many times over the years. This has been carried out at Pontneddfechan part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This is area is also known locally as the waterfall country.
Firstly, what is Gorge walking or Gorge Scrambling?
Gorge Walking or Gorge scrambling typically involves following the river scrambling, climbing, traversing, crawling and jumping off waterfalls and into plunge pools. It’s an exhilarating experience with stunning views in some of the best Welsh countryside.
How did I start?
It all started when one of my friends started his own outdoor pursuits business called Blue Ocean Activities. As he took groups out I used to tag along and assist to have a bit of fun and get some good exercise. One day whilst out mountain biking he suggested about me becoming an instructor. This made perfect sense as I’ve always enjoyed Gorge walking. So, last year I qualified as an instructor and started taking groups out.
The route
We start off by making our way down the river Mellte and then shortly bearing left and adventuring up river Sychryd. There are a number of challenges along the way, which include crawls in confined spaces together with a number traverses as we navigate our way along. We then scramble our way up the waterfall cascade to arrive at our first jumps with the first being accessed by crawling underneath a waterfall. The jumps start off small building up in size to the last one. This being 22ft and known locally as Loonies Leap. If your lucky and time permitting you’ll get to do this one a few times.
Conclusion
Am I biased, possibly, but this has to be one of the best activities I’ve ever done. I can’t recommend Gorge walking in Brecon Beacons enough. I’ve taken my family who thoroughly enjoyed the experience and my son comes along regularly. Just take a look at the video and photos below.
