Today, 8 lucky Merthyr Valley Ramblers, led by Martina, took on one of the best-known mountain walks in Bannau Brycheiniog, the spectacular Beacons Horseshoe. With a stiff 10-mile loop ahead of us, we set off from the car park and headed north towards the old filter house at Lower Neuadd.The reservoir here forms part of Merthyr’s fascinating Victorian water-supply history, with Lower Neuadd dating back to the 1880s, a little bit of local history before the serious climbing began! After crossing the Taf Fechan, it was time for the first test of the legs. We turned west and began the steep climb towards the Graig Fan Ddu ridge. It certainly got the hearts pumping! Reaching the top was a welcome excuse to stop for a cuppa and catch our breath. By now it had turned decidedly chilly, so there was no hanging around for too long! Refreshed, we followed the ridge northwards with the huge mountain scenery opening up around us. Eventually we reached Corn Du at 873m, where we were rewarded with magnificent panoramic views across the surrounding peaks and valleys. From there, it was onwards and upwards to the roof of South Wales, Pen y Fan at 886m! As if the scenery wasn't enough, two playful red kites decided to put on their own aerial display above us. The weather had completely changed by lunchtime too, giving us warm sunshine, blue skies and just enough of a cooling breeze to make it perfect for a lunch with a view. After the obligatory summit group photo, we began the steep descent eastwards. But there was still one more climb waiting for us… Our third and final summit of the day was Cribyn at 795m. Another tough climb in the legs, but another one well worth the effort! From Cribyn we picked up the Cambrian Way, eventually turning south and making our way down the Gap Road for the final stretch back towards the car park.