Mynydd Llangorse

While Pen y Fan is one of the big attractions in the Brecon Beacons, for a photographer it’s tricky to photograph a mountain when you’re standing on it. So if you are looking for sweeping views of the beacons, Mynydd Llangorse is a great option, and a lot quicker to climb!

Mynydd Llagorse itself is a fairly indistinct peak, more of a plateau, above Llangorse Lake in the eastern Brecon Beacons. The best starting point is from the small col between Mynydd Llangorse and Mynydd Troed, the later also offering spectacular views and a quicker, but much steeper climb.

From the col, the photography opportunities begin quickly with rocky foregrounds and sweeping views over the lake on the initial ascent. Its easy to get stuck here, but things get even better once you reach the summit area and the slopes beyond, where the spectacular view south towards Pen y Fan opens up. If you are heading out for sunrise its worth getting to this spot early to catch the first light on the high peaks. Its especially photogenic when there’s some mist around, which helps to simplify the compositions across the valleys below.

For sunsets option, the ridge near the parking area is one of my favourite spots. Or you can head up the steeper Mynydd Troid which gives you a view back directly over Llangorse lake towards the mountains. If you're feeling energetic, its also a popular mountain biking spot so grab your camera backpack and your bike and you're in for a great outing!