South Wales Three Peaks Trial

South Wales Three Peaks Trial

The South Wales Three Peaks Trial is an annual organised challenge walk held in March by the Cardiff Outdoor Group. The 2027 event is scheduled for Saturday 20th March 2027. The walk was first held in March 1963 and is now described as the oldest challenge walk in the UK. It was originally designed to test endurance and map reading skills.

Over the years the event has been modified and in 2027 there is a choice of four routes, varying in distance and total ascent:

• Platinum Route: linear, about 17 miles, 5000' ascent, Llanthony Abbey to Abergavenny
• Gold Route: circular, about 20 miles, 5000' ascent, crosses Blorenge, Sugar Loaf, Skirrid
• Silver Route: circular, about 15 miles, 4000' ascent, follows Gold over Blorenge and Sugar Loaf
• Bronze Route: circular, about 10 miles, 2000' ascent, Abergavenny to Sugar Loaf summit and descent

Since 2010 Longtown Mountain Rescue Team provide support with marshalls on all the mountain top checkpoints. Entry to the Platinum Route is limited to 100. Entries cannot be taken on the day.

For 2027 the organisers continue a partnership with the Gwent Wildlife Trust to increase awareness of local flora and fauna around the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and surrounding areas. Funds raised in 2027 will be split between Longtown Mountain Rescue Team, Gwent Wildlife Trust and the National Trust, with the possibility of one further charity to be confirmed in November 2027. Participants may raise sponsorship for other registered charities subject to organiser approval. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.