Expertly led today by Peter, 11 of us set off from the beautiful Cwmcarn Forest Visitor Centre, a gateway to adventure nestled in the Nantcarn Valley. Once famed for coal mining, the forest has transformed into a haven for walkers, bikers and nature lovers, managed today by Natural Resources Wales. The walk began with a long, steady climb, heading north then turning northeast into the cool woodland towards Craig y Glyn. Spirits were high despite the warm, humid air and a near total lack of breeze, a proper summer stomp! Our first break revealed a picturesque view across Forest Drive, once a post-industrial forestry road, now lovingly reopened in 2021 for scenic driving and walking, it winds through rich woodland and showcases the area's rebirth. Far in the distance we spotted Twmbarlwm, the iconic hill topped by an Iron Age hillfort. Steeped in legend and often called the “twmp” by locals, it's thought to have been a tribal stronghold and later a Norman motte-and-bailey. We pressed on south through the trees of Pwll Tra, eventually joining the Cambrian Way, a trail that stretches across the spine of Wales. Before long, we were standing atop Twmbarlwm itself, the views were simply stunning! From the summit we soaked up panoramic views across Newport, over the Severn Estuary, and even caught sight of Flat Holm and Steep Holm, islands with rich military history. Behind us, Pen y Fan and Corn Du stood proudly in the hazy Brecon Beacons skyline. The descent took us past the trig point, then down a very steep path back towards the drive and into the welcome shade of the forestry for our return leg. To top it off, a few of us enjoyed a well earned refreshment at The Otter pub nearby, a fitting end to a rewarding walk and great company. Thanks again Peter for leading another memorable day out!