Fforest Itinerary: A Cross-Cambrian Adventure

Fforest Itinerary: A Cross-Cambrian Adventure

Journeys Through The Heart of Wales


Forget the bustling crowds of Snowdonia and the well-trodden paths of Pembrokeshire. Venture instead into the soul of Wales, where the Cambrian Mountains rise in timeless splendour and hidden valleys whisper secrets of a bygone era.

Katie's "My Favourite Drives" series invites you on an intimate journey through this often-overlooked region, beginning with a breathtaking route that winds through ancient landscapes and charming villages. From the beauty of the Elan Valley to the dramatic heights of Pumlumon, source of the mighty Wye and Severn rivers, she reveals a side of Wales more rarely seen.

This is a journey that will stay with you long after you've returned home, a reminder of the wild beauty that lies at the heart of Wales.

Journey Time:  About 4 hours driving through some of the most stunning scenery in Wales, 6 hours total if you add stops and lunch.  We make a day of it!

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Leg 1: Fforest Fields to Devil's Bridge

  • Start: Fforest Fields
  • Finish: Devil's Bridge (The Hafod for lunch)
  • Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including a scenic detour through the Elan Valley)

From Fforest Fields, head west towards the Elan Valley. Take your time exploring the dams and reservoirs – they're quite a sight! But don't stop at the last dam like many people do. Keep going! The road winds and dips over open moorland, eventually leading you down into the enchanting, oak-filled valley of the Rheidol River. This is your introduction to the Cambrian Mountains. These ancient hills, some of the oldest in the world, have been worn down over time, creating a landscape of gentle curves and winding roads. As you approach Devil's Bridge, the road narrows, but there are plenty of passing places with stunning views down the valley. The Hafod in Devil's Bridge is the perfect spot to stop for lunch.

Leg 2: Devil's Bridge to Aberystwyth

  • Start: Devil's Bridge
  • Finish: Aberystwyth
  • Time: Approximately 30 minutes

From Devil's Bridge, continue your journey towards Aberystwyth. Enjoy the dramatic scenery as you descend further into the valley, with glimpses of the Rheidol River sparkling below. Keep an eye out for the Vale of Rheidol Railway, a narrow-gauge steam train that chugs its way through the picturesque landscape.

Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth is a vibrant seaside town where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. Overlooking the town and harbour are the imposing ruins of Aberystwyth Castle, a 13th-century fortress with a rich and turbulent past. The town itself boasts a charming promenade lined with colourful Victorian architecture and a lively atmosphere

Time for to head back to pitch?  You can head from Aberystwyth back with up over the Cambrians again to Rhayader, or take the more express route towards Llangurig then Rhayader. For another stop off consider Nant Y Arian for bike trails, or the Magic of Life Butterfly House.

For those who want to continue, as I did...

Leg 3: Aberystwyth to Borth

  • Start: Aberystwyth
  • Finish: Borth
  • Time: Approximately 20 minutes

When you get to Aberystwyth, you might be tempted to take a shortcut to Llangurig and Rhayader. But if you have the time, stick to the plan and head on to Borth. This charming little seaside village has a wonderfully relaxed pace, with interesting shops and even a small zoo to explore!

Leg 4: Borth to Ynyslas

  • Start: Borth
  • Finish: Ynyslas National Nature Reserve
  • Time: Approximately 10 minutes

From Borth, head down the main street towards Ynyslas, a national nature reserve where you can park right on the beach! It's a great place to stretch your legs, wander over the dunes to the sea, or maybe even build a sandcastle or two. It's a dog-friendly beach, but there might be a small parking fee in the summer months.

Leg 5: Ynyslas to Nant y Moch

  • Start: Ynyslas
  • Finish: Nant y Moch
  • Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Time to turn for home, but not before experiencing the wildest part of the journey! This route takes you right over the Pumlumon range, where both the River Wye and the River Severn begin their journeys. It's amazing to think that these two mighty rivers rise just a few miles apart, flow in completely different directions, and then eventually meet again under the old Severn Bridge. To get there, find Talybont on the A487, near the turning for Borth, and follow the signs for Nant Y Moch. Be prepared, it's a rough, narrow road, and it can be quite wet. But trust me, it's worth it! The first glimpse of Pumlumon Fawr is simply breathtaking, especially when it's covered in snow. There's a handy place to pull off the road where you can soak up the fresh air and the incredible views.

Leg 6: Nant y Moch to Fforest Fields (Return)

  • Start: Nant y Moch
  • Finish: Fforest Fields
  • Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on your route and stops)

From the Pumlumon viewpoint, you can either head back the way you came or take a different route through the beautiful countryside back to Fforest Fields.

 

 

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