If you want to be inspired - come to Rhayader.
The town and it's surrounding area is a perfect destination for anyone seeking all year round activities, whether it's a gentle amble along the River Wye or energising mountain biking across the rugged hills, the spectacular countryside provides an inspiring backdrop for it all.
The nearby 70 square mile estate of the flooded Elan Valley is spectacularly beautiful and is home to some of Britain's most rare wildlife and plants along with magnificent engineering to create a fantastic experience whatever your choice of activity.
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As the first town on the River Wye and it's links with the Elan Valley Lakes, Rhayader is an excellent location for those who enjoy fishing. The spectacular lakes of the Elan Valley and endless miles of the River Wye provide enormous variety for the discerning fisher. The natural lake of Llyn Gwyn which is owned by the Angling Association and believed to have been used by the monks is stocked with brown trout and is the venue for round the year fishing. Rhayader Angling Association controls permits that are cheap and readily available from the local newsagents.
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Scenic hills and valleys that are criss-crossed with footpaths, make it ideal for walkers who appreciate the unspoilt beauty of the magnificent mountain scenery, natural history and calming peace of the countryside.
The Riverside Walk follows the Wye through the town and provides time to enjoy the myriad of creatures that live along its banks while the Wye Valley Walk, on its final stretch of the 218km (136 mile) route, weaves its way through the streets of Rhayader before heading up towards Llangurig and it source or downstream towards Llanwrthwl. On either side of the town the banks of the Wye provide astounding peace and beauty with the entire length of the river and it's banks noted as a site of scientific special interest.
Hundreds of miles of bridleways and quiet lanes, makes Rhayader the ideal base for cyclists of all ages and abilities to explore the area. Cycle hire is available in the town and allows you to explore the spectacular views along the 13km (8mile) Elan Trail which runs from the town through scenic countryside around the Elan Valley reservoirs. It is a safe and dedicated trail for all visitors, from walkers, cyclists to wheelchair users and children.
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On the outskirts of Rhayader, on the way towards the Elan Valley, the Sustrans National Cycle Route (8) provides the perfect opportunity for the long distance cyclist to call in and appreciate the local fare.
Hanging oak forests, rocky outcrops and unpolluted farmland make this the best place in the country to watch rarities such as red kites, peregrines, pied flycatchers and redstarts.
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The countryside surrounding Rhayader is home to the famous Red Kite and daily feeding can be seen at the UK's leading Red Kite Centre, Gigrin Farm just on the outskirts of the town. Over 150 kites gather for the daily afternoon feeding sessions at Gigrin Kite Centre, not to mention scores of buzzards and ravens. Explore the farm further along its countryside nature trail.
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Amongst the other activities in the town why not visit the local Leisure Centre which is fully equipped with a gym, squash courts, pool and solarium.
For many years Welsh Royal Crystal has drawn in crowds from far and wide . Along with its on site showroom you can observe the skills of glass blowing by the nearby Elan Glass Studio.
If you wish to venture further afield Rhayader is an excellent base to discover the areas treasures in all directions, be in the Cwmystwyth mountain road to the west or the source of the Rivers Wye and Severn to the north.
Four miles north of the town is Gilfach Nature Reserve where you can enjoy a unique wildlife experience set in 200 acres of dramatic countryside with a tumbling upland river, sessile oak woodland, meadows and upland moorland. The reserve provides an opportunity to explore nature's rich diversity, from otters to polecats, and discover a lovingly restored Welsh longhouse.
Nearby Abbey-Cwm-Hir (The Abbey in the Long Valley) was once home, around 1143, to the second largest religious building in Europe and its ruins house the grave of Llewellyn ap Gruffyd, the last of the Welsh Princes. It's sister abbey, the well known site at Strata Florida is linked by the Monks Trod over the hills past the Elan Valley Lakes.
...so much to do...in so many ways. |
