Ogof Gwaliau Gwynion

Getting to Ogof Gwaliau Gwynion means leaving the main roads behind Crickhowell and heading into proper cave country. The entrance is unassuming - just a hole in the hillside that doesn't announce itself, which is part of the appeal. This isn't a visitor attraction with a gift shop; it's a real cave system that rewards anyone willing to put in a bit of effort.

Once inside, you're in a different world entirely. The passages open out into chambers with decent-sized passages, and the geology is genuinely interesting if you're into that sort of thing. Bring a proper torch - a phone light won't cut it. The walk in isn't brutal, but it's muddy underfoot and involves some scrambling, so it's not for the casually dressed.

History buffs will appreciate that this place has been explored for centuries. There's real weight to standing where people have stood before.

Walkers and geology types will get the most from this. Young kids might find the scrambling tedious, and it's not the sort of place to linger for hours. The cave system itself is modest compared to some of Wales' more famous underground passages, but that's also what makes it feel genuine rather than sanitised.

There's no charge that we're aware of, and no formal visitor facilities. If you're based at Cwmdu Campsite nearby, this makes a proper rainy day excursion or a change of pace from the walking routes around the Brecon Beacons. Allow an hour or so, depending on how far you venture.