AFTER an initial forecast of rain all day, Robin and his eight companions were somewhat inspired by the clear blue skies and sunshine upon their arrival at Cwmdu or Black Valley, at the start of a 12-mile hike on the east and west sides of the Rhiangoll valley.

The Rhiangoll River rises on the western slopes of Waun Fach before flowing through Talgarth, Tretower and Cwmdu on its journey to join the River Usk. The lovely village church, which overlooks the valley is dedicated to St Michael and has a 15th century tower whilst the rest of the building was rebuilt in 1830 and again in 1907.

Passing the church and the village pub they began to climb uphill through fields from Pentwyn Farm to join part of the Beacon’s Way, which runs around the base of Pen Cerrig-calch and following a wide grassy pathway through the ferns, they paused in the sunshine for morning coffee. From this point they could enjoy brilliant views out across the valley towards the twin peaks of Corn Du and Pen y Fan away in the distance.

Continuing their journey and making their way downhill to Cwm-gu, they followed the road to Tretower Court and Castle where they were welcomed by a gentleman in medieval costume playing tunes on his pipe dating back to the 16th century, before they stopped for their lunch break.

The stone built Tretower Castle was constructed on an earlier Norman motte and bailey site during the mid 12th century and lies on the north bank of the River Usk. The ruins are dominated by the Great Tower which has three storeys each with a single room, fireplace and window and was constructed not only for defensive purposes but also as a status symbol.

By 1400, the domestic part of the castle had moved to Tretower Court, but the castle survived and was used as a military fortress at times of war especially when Owen Glyndwr’s uprising was taking place. In 1826, the castle and village were purchased as part of the Glanusk Estate by the ironmaster Sir Joseph Bailey and his grandson rebuilt the church and also built the parish hall.

Suitably refreshed the group continued climbing gradually up through fields towards Cefn Moel and one field was smothered with white clover, which as they passed through sent up great wafts of sweet honey aroma on the breeze, whilst one of the group insisted on laying face down in the field to get a closer look.

Climbing up onto the common by means of a bridleway and re-joining part of the long distance Beacon’s Way they continued to Mynydd Llangorse from where there were stunning views down to Llangorse Lake in the valley below. Then following the pathway around to the crest of the hill leading to Pen Tir and stopping for a short rest, rehydration and sun worshipping, they made their way downhill back to Cwmdu where a unanimous vote led them into the Farmer’s Arms for a well-earned and much needed drink prior to the homeward journey.

On August 1, please note the change to the planned walk, meet 8.30am at Cogan Leisure Centre for a nine-mile moderate walk taking in Cwm Banw and Mynydd Llysiau; contact Liz on 029 2051 3698.

On August 4, meet 8am at Cogan for a mid-week 12-mile moderate walk taking in the Golden Valley and Dore Abbey to the east of the Black Mountains; contact William on 01446 747239.

Wear suitable clothing, preferably boots and carry waterproofs, food and drinks. Some degree of fitness is required and if you are in any doubt, then please contact the walk leader for advice.

To follow the group log onto penarthramblers.wordpress.com. Programmes and membership advice can be obtained from Pam on 029 2025 5102.