Blogging about boots, buns, and dirty work
Happy New Year 2026
Wintry Wales: Morning Walk at Keeper’s Pond & The Blorenge | Brecon Beacons
There is a raw, unique beauty to the Welsh mountains in the heart of winter, perfectly captured during this morning’s trek to Keeper’s Pond (historically known as Forge Pond) above Blaenavon.
Setting off from the small car park, the sweeping views were immediate and breathtaking. A massive well done to the brave souls kicking off 2026 with a New Year’s Day dip in the freezing water! The air was incredibly crisp and the ground dusted with frost; the wind’s sharp bite was a firm reminder of why layering is essential (though even my two layers couldn’t keep my backside warm).
The trail skirts the pond before beginning a gentle ascent along the flank of The Blorenge. From this height, if the skies were clear we would have got to see the iconic Sugar Loaf and the distant, rugged peaks of the Black Mountains.
Happy New Year to everyone!
