As this goes right past my doorstep in Llanrhystud, and I have done most of the sections in isolation over the years it has always been a desire of mine to complete the whole trail in its entirety. After doing the stretch from New Quay to Llanrhystud the week before, I decided the time had come. It would be a great test of my abilities and equipment ready for my epic Coast to Coast the following week. An opportunity to iron out any niggles, or to totally rethink or back out

Nant-y-Moch dam and reservoir This challenging 22 km (13.67 miles) hike begins at the car park (no charge) tucked beside the beautiful Nant‑y‑Moch dam. I’m not going to tell you how to get there — that’s your Sat‑Nav’s job — but I will give you a word of warning. Once you turn off the main A44, the road becomes single track and wonderfully twisty‑turny… but then again, what Welsh road isn’t? Drive with care. The surface is good and there are plenty of passing places. One day