The best walks and hikes around Mawr

The trails in Mawr cater to a range of abilities, but most are considered easy to moderate. The landscape is primarily defined by gentle reservoir paths and quiet woodlands with relatively low elevation changes, making it accessible for most walkers. Out of over 160 routes, the vast majority are rated as easy or moderate, with only a few classified as difficult.

Yes, Mawr is an excellent choice for family outings. A particularly good option is the Lower Lliw Reservoir – Lower Lliw Café loop from Felindre. It's a short, mostly flat walk of about 3 km through the Lliw Reservoirs country park, which is ideal for walkers of all ages.

Many of the trails around the reservoirs and through the woodlands are suitable for walking with dogs. However, you will be passing through areas with wildlife and potentially livestock, so it's important to keep your dog under control, especially on paths like the Upper Lliw Reservoir loop from Rhyd-y-fro. Always check for local signage regarding leads.

For hikes around the Lliw Reservoirs, there is a dedicated car park at the Lower Lliw Reservoir. This serves as a convenient starting point for many popular routes, including the trail that connects the lower and upper reservoirs. Arrive early on sunny weekends as it can get busy.

The area is perfect for circular hikes. Most of the popular routes are loops that bring you back to your starting point. A great example is the From Lower Lliw Reservoir to Upper Lliw Reservoir loop, which provides a satisfying circuit connecting both reservoirs.

The main scenic draws are the tranquil waters of the Lower and Upper Lliw Reservoirs. The paths that follow the shorelines offer beautiful, reflective views. Additionally, sections that follow the historic Swansea Canal, such as on the Swansea Canal Trail loop from Faerdre, provide a charming mix of waterway and woodland scenery.

The hiking routes in Mawr are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the well-maintained paths along the reservoirs, and the beauty of the quiet woodlands.

Yes, the Lower Lliw Reservoir Café, located near the main car park, is a popular spot for a break before or after a walk. It's conveniently situated on several routes, including the short family-friendly loop from Felindre, making it easy to plan a stop for refreshments.

Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are recommended as some paths can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain. As with any hike in Wales, it's wise to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly. The terrain isn't overly demanding, so heavy-duty mountaineering gear is not necessary for most trails.

While many routes are short and easy, there are options for a longer day out. The Swansea Canal Trail – Woodland Stream loop from Craig-cefn-parc is a great choice, covering over 12 km. It combines a flat canal-side walk with a more strenuous climb through woodland, offering more variety and a greater challenge.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore. You can find over 160 hiking routes around Mawr on komoot, ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes. This network of paths ensures there's always a new route to discover.