Peak performance for stunning Welsh mountain images

These beautiful images show the natural world at its finest - stunning landscapes, whatever the weather. And now, these incredible pictures been recognised as the best photographs of mountains - and all of the top three are in Wales. Ruth Mosalski reports...

- 

TRAIL Magazine, the UK's biggest and bestselling hillwalking title, has announced the winners of its UK Mountain Photo of the Year Award 2025.

Cormac Downes, from Newport, claimed the top spot with his extraordinary image taken above the clouds on Pen y Fan, southern Britain's highest peak, in Bannau Brycheiniog.

His winning shot captures a dramatic cloud inversion beneath the summit, with his silhouette poised against the ethereal backdrop.

The photo was taken 36 hours after Cormac had climbed the same mountain in the dead of night under a star-filled sky.

Determined to create something even more powerful, he returned, set his timer, stepped toward the edge, and gazed out in awe - resulting in an image that perfectly embodies the spirit of adventure.

Judges praised the winning shot, saying: “This image perfectly captures the classic outdoor photographer's gamble: wake up at a ridiculous hour, hike in the dark, hope the weather plays nice... and occasionally get rewarded.