9k Run Talybont-on-Usk: Scenic Loop around Pontsticill Reservoir

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience the heart of the Brecon Beacons with this stunning 8.5km loop around Pontsticill Reservoir. This route offers a fantastic mix of terrain, beginning with an easy, flat stretch along the eastern shoreline that accounts for much of the paved surface. The real challenge—and reward—lies on the western side, where you’ll tackle approximately 80m of ascent through lush woodland trails. While the climb is categorized as moderate, the undulating path provides a true trail-running feel with spectacular views across the water toward the towering peaks of Pen y Fan and Corn Du. It is an ideal distance for runners looking to transition from road to trail without an overwhelming amount of technical elevation.

Steeped in industrial history and natural beauty, the area surrounding Pontsticill (also known as Taf Fechan Reservoir) is a cornerstone of the south Wales landscape. As you run, keep an eye out for the Brecon Mountain Railway steam trains that often puff along the hillside, adding a nostalgic charm to the atmosphere. The reservoir itself was completed in 1927 to supply water to the growing industrial valleys, and its iconic valve tower remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the National Park. Running here offers a unique connection to the Welsh wilderness, where the quiet of the forest meets the dramatic Victorian engineering of the Talybont-on-Usk region.