Nestled within the green valleys of Mid Wales, the Elan Valley might just be one of Wales’ most scenic and underrated places to visit. Now, what makes the Elan Valley even more special is that there are heaps of trails, lakes (or reservoirs) and stunning drives to take.
Over the years, I’ve visited the Elan Valley many times, and honestly, it’s beautiful. It’s one of those things about Wales, there’s always some view, some region or stunning coastline to visit. In fact, I’d go as far as saying that’s the beauty of Wales; it’s nature.
Now, to make sure you get the most out of your visit, I’m sharing my Elan Valley travel guide that will help you navigate one of Wales’ most beautiful places.
How to get to the Elan Valley?
Okay, so the public transport infrastructure, outside of main areas in Wales, is quite limited. Almost non-existent in certain areas. It’s fine if you’re following higher populated routes like North Wales or South Wales – but it is harder in that middle bit.
If you want to visit by train, the easiest stop to get off at is Llandrindod Wells (Google Maps pin) in the county of Powys. Again, most towns around this rural region of Wales are small, so choices can be limited (but not obsolete) when it comes to finding hotels or inns to stay at.
Personally, just due to the geographic region and limited train and bus options, I’d always recommend visiting the Elan Valley by car. The roads are great, a little winding, but great nonetheless.
Where to stay in the Elan Valley?
For a larger base to stay in, you can consider the town of Aberystwyth (which is about a 75-minute drive) or much closer places like Llanguirig (Google Maps pin) or Builth Wells. Alternatively, if you fancy camping in Wales, then check out nearby Glangwy Farm Camping. It’s a lovely site in the heart of the Elan Valley, making it so easy to drive to and from here.
Where to visit in the Elan Valley?
One place I always recommend visiting in the Elan Valley is the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. The team here are great to advise on routes, closures, advice on trails and to learn more about the history of Elan Valley itself.
Also, right next to it is the Cnwch Wood trail that will lead you out, beyond the woods, to Caban Coch, one of the four largest lakes in the Elan Valley region. You can also drive next to the Elan Valley Public Footpath that takes you around some of the biggest lakes here. This is a great way to get your bearings of the area, or if you have limited mobility. You still get to see so much of the incredible scenery, regardless of whether it’s on foot or by car.
Now, as you wander passed Caban Coch lake, you want to make sure you also stop off at Garreg Ddu lake. They almost feel like the same body of water, and there’s just a road separating the two. Once here, be sure to spot the iconic Foel Valve Tower (Google Maps pin).
Be sure to visit Pen y Garreg and Craig Goch lakes too. Both of these are stunning, and you can kind of follow the road from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre and see them all. They almost look like ribbon lakes, but obviously created to collect water.
Oh, and my Elan Valley travel guide would be complete without me recommending the lovely Elan Valley Waterfall Trail, which is around 1 mile or so. It’s a relatively easy hike – more of an intense stroll and totally easy to follow if you fancy getting out from behind the wheel of the car.
Alternatively, just stick to the Garreg Ddu Loop, which makes it easy to follow as you know you’ll end up back where you started. It’s always an easier option if you’re not great with map reading.
I forgot to mention! In the summer months, there are ‘Dam Open Days‘ where you can actually go inside the dams themselves. It’s actually much more interesting than it sounds and well worth checking out on these self-guided tours. There’s a small charge to go inside, but it really isn’t too much at all.
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