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Fan Llia

Fan Llia is a neglected mountain, its elephantine bulk, unmatched by any shapeliness of profile, giving it a dull appearance. But appearances can be deceptive: Llia’s long N-S ridge, where the 1800ft contour line stretches for over 2 miles, might well have been made to order. Firm short-cropped grass and heather create perfect fellwalking conditions. The views are superb too. The Fan Fawr plateau curves away dramatically at either end; Fan Nedd and Fan Gihirych are backed by the Black Mountain’s shadowy profile; meadows fringe the Usk and the distant outline of the mid-Wales hills while purple rolling moors beckon beyond the Ystradfellte Valley. A truly rewarding top. Tired walkers toiling up the S ridge should note that several hundred yards remain beyond the cairn before the highest point is reached.

Pont Blaen Cwm-du route (FF8)

A short walk S along the bridleway from Pont Blaen Cwm-du (see FF7) brings you to a gate where a fence struggles up the hillside. You can follow this for a quick but steep pull up to the N ridge. Alternatively continue along the bridleway for a few more minutes until you see a green path sidling away L. This is helpful for a time but gradually peters out. Even without a path it is still easy going and you should not be panting too hard when you finally breast the ridge. Either way look out for the mini rocky outcrop around Fan Dringarth; quite a rarity in these parts.

S ridge (FF9)

Cross the concrete bridge over the Afon Llia near the picnic area at 927165. Next climb a stile to join a track that runs beside the stream for a moment before turning R to scale the ridge alongside a wall. A dreary plod, but under 0.5 mile and well rewarded once you gain the ridge with springy turf and fine views the rest of the way.

Maen Llia route (FF10)

Use as a quick descent or when crossing to / from the Fan Nedd ridge.

You can gain the N ridge at Fan Dringarth directly from the standing stone of Maen Llia. There is no path, but the slope is gentle and the only obstacle is a wire fence near the start.