The Black Mountains
NP7
Category: Place to Visit
Take a walk on the wild side
Far quieter than the central area of the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains (not to be confused with the Black Mountain which lies 40 miles west) have a distinctly remote and wild quality which makes them a popular destination for hill walkers and pony trekkers alike. Bordered by the Offa’s Dyke long-distance footpath, it’s an impressive area of tiny villages, isolated churches and pretty lanes. The best places to walk are in the east of the area and along the southern band of peaks, easily reached from Abergavenny and Crickhowell, most notably Pen Cerrigcalch, Table Mountain and the Sugar Loaf. The hills in the centre and to the north are less accessible. The most eye-catching mountain in the area is the Skirrid, also known as the 'Holy Mountain' or 'Sacred Hill', three miles northeast of Abergavenny which offers breathtaking views. Rudolf Hess used to walk here when he was held prisoner at Miandiff Court during the early 1940s. After your walk, why not pop into the Skirrid Inn in the village of Llanfihangel Crucorney which claims to be the oldest Public House in Wales? You could also visit Llanthony Priory which was founded on the site of a ruined chapel around 1100 by Norman knight, William de Lacy.