Map & Elevation
About this Route
This GPX climbs Pumlumon Fawr from Eisteddfa Gurig by the farm and old mine track, returning the same way. It covers 7.1 km with about 334 m of ascent and usually takes 2½ to 4 hours. This is the easiest common approach, but the upper Cambrian Mountains are open, wet and exposed to rapid weather changes.
Start at Eisteddfa Gurig Farm beside the A44, paying the parking charge and following the permitted route through the farmyard. Take the lower gate beside the Afon Tarenig and follow the track towards the old mine ruins. Beyond the workings, leave the track on the waymarked path climbing more steeply onto the ridge. Continue over broad grass and peat to the summit trig point and large shelter cairn at 752 m.
Return to Eisteddfa Gurig by the same waymarked line. This GPX does not continue to Pen Pumlumon Arwystli or the sources of the Severn and Wye. The path fades across the upper ground, while mist can make the mine-track turn difficult to find. Carry a map and compass, respect the farm access arrangement and leave all gates as found.
Pumlumon is known for rugged, uninhabited landscapes, and the weather can change quickly.
Ceredigion County Council
Route Waypoints
Start at the farm parking area beside the A44. Pay the required charge and follow all access instructions.
Walk through the designated part of the yard, keeping clear of machinery, animals and private buildings.
Take the lower gate beside the Afon Tarenig and follow the track as it bends uphill.
Continue on the broad track towards the disused workings. Stay outside ruins and unstable spoil.
After passing the workings, leave the track on the steep waymarked summit path.
Cross broad grass and peat. In cloud, take a bearing because the path can fade.
Reach the trig point and shelter cairn at 752 m. Stop here rather than continuing across the massif.
Retrace the waymarked path, mine track and farm route to the parking area.
Essential Tips
Access and parking are provided through a working farm. Pay the charge, follow signs and keep away from machinery.
Ceredigion Council warns that weather changes quickly here. Carry navigation and turn back if visibility becomes poor.
Old workings may be unstable or conceal drops. View them from the established track.
Other Pumlumon trails lead to different valleys. This GPX goes back to Eisteddfa Gurig.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to climb Pumlumon Fawr from Eisteddfa Gurig?
It usually takes 2½ to 4 hours to complete the full walk. The route is 7.1 km with 327 m of ascent, returning the same way you came up.
Do I have to pay for parking at Eisteddfa Gurig?
Yes, there's a parking charge at the farm. You're parking on a working farm, so pay the required fee and follow all their access instructions.
Is it easy to get lost on Pumlumon Fawr?
The path can fade on the upper ground, and mist can make it hard to find the mine-track turn on the way back. Always carry a map and compass because the weather changes quickly up there.