The Brecon Beacons are one of the most famous parts of Wales — a stunning mountain range that has become a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers.
Many visitors don’t realise the wide range of activities available around the Brecon Beacons. Here are a few of the best ways you can enjoy yourself while visiting the area.
Outings for Nature Lovers and Thrill Seekers
The natural environment in the Brecon Beacons National Park is truly spectacular. The Brecon Beacons range consists of six main peaks, named Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, Fan-y-Big, Bwlch-y-Ddwyallt and Waun Rydd. The views in the area are stunning, with the large mountains sweeping down into valleys dotted with lakes and green pastures.
It is a peaceful part of the world, but there are also opportunities for more exciting adrenaline-filled activities in the area. Here are some of the best outings for nature lovers.
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Walk up Pen-y-Fan
Pen-y-Fan is the highest peak in he Brecon Beacons and South Wales’ highest mountain at 886 metres (2907 feet). The walk takes approximately 2 hours in total (return) and features a spectacular view at the summit. A vigorous walk, but one suitable for people of all ages.
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Red Kite Feeding Station
A feeding station for Red Kites, a beautiful bird of prey indigenous to the area. Feeding occurs daily and there are benches for visitors to sit and watch these incredible animals.
Looking to stay in a luxury property whilst visiting the Brecon Beacons?
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Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
This large canal runs 42 miles from Brecon to Newport, Gwent. Narrowboats can be rented for journeys along the canal and there are a number of accommodation options near the canal.
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Sbri Cymru Ltd
If you prefer something a bit faster-paced, Sbri Cymru Ltd off a range of adventure activities including abseiling, claiming, caving, gorge walking and more. They also teach bushcraft skill if you are interested in improving your survival capabilities.
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The Sgwd yr Eira Walk
One of the lushest parts of the Brecon Beacons National Park, this walk includes 4 waterfalls, a large cave and dense woodlands. A challenging walk but worth the effort.
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Trans Wales Trails – Day Tours
One of the best ways to enjoy the Brecon Beacons is on horseback. Trans Wales Trails offer guided day rides and longer trail rides throughout the park.
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Black Mountain Quarries
A relatively new trail in the national park, visitors can learn more about the quarries that operated in the area and the history of the region.
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Lower Blaen y Glyn
Another spectacular set of waterfalls that can be reached with a 2 hour walk. Two main rivers converge to funnel water through almost 20 separate waterfalls.
Activities for the Children
There are a number of activities around the national park which will be particularly fun for the kids. Here are a few.
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Good Day Out
This company offers guided tours in the Brecon Beacons National Park as well as astronomy evenings, sheep trekking and wildlife adventures. Great fun for kids and adults alike!
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Cantref Adventure Farm and Riding Centre
A great family day out, the Cantref Adventure Farm has pony riding, pet handling, bottle feeding of baby animals, tractor riding, a super sledge ride, splash paddle boats, water wars and a maize maze.
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Black Mountain Activities
This family-run company offers a wide range of activities for kids and adults, The activities on offer include bushcraft class, archery, rope courses, zip wires, gorge walking, orienteering, mountain biking, land carting, caving, paint-balling, abseiling, clay pigeon shooting and much more!
Sightseeing and Historical Sites
There are some incredible historical sites within a short distance of the Brecon Beacons including:
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Tretower Castle & Court
The ruins of the majestic Tretower Castle. Step back in time and gain an understanding of how people lived 900 years ago. The castle and grounds are well-maintained and set in a beautiful location.
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Brecon Cathedral
A magnificent cathedral located in the town of Brecon. Built in 1215, this Grade I listed building features highly detailed stained glass windows and stonework.
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Llanthony Priory
Located in the Vale of Ewyas, the partly-ruined Llanthony Priory was an Augustinian priory. The building’s remains are daunting in size and a spectacular historical location worth visiting.
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Y Pigwn
A reconstructed Roman village that includes a fort and camp. There is an online app which can be downloaded to guide visitors through the camp.
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The Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh (Brecon)
The Brecon Beacons has a close relationship with the military as it is used for survival training. This museum recounts the history of the British army’s most famous regiments. Dating back to the 1680s, the collection includes many objects including weapons, uniforms and medals.
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Penderyn Distillery (Penderyn)
Penderyn Distillery produced the first commercially available whisky in Wales. The distillery now makes a range of whiskies, vodkas and gin. A fantastic place to enjoy a tasting session.
If this has got you interested in visiting the Brecon Beacons head over to our dedicated page for Luxury Welsh Houses and arrange your trip!
