Explore the Outdoors

The friendly market town of Rhayader and surrounding area is known as “The Outdoors Capital of Wales”

Walk the breath-taking landscape. From your doorstep follow the two Farm Nature Trails. Try the varied walks in the local area and the Elan Valley. The famous Offa’s Dyke in nearby Knighton can also be explored.

Pony Trekking in the Elan Valley is highly recommended or book a riding lesson or hack at the local Riding Stables. Booking ahead is essential.

Fly Fishing is popular at the nearby Tout Master Waters of Llyngwyn Lake and the Rivers Wye, Elan and Marteg are fished for Grayling, Salmon and Trout. Arrange a permit, equipment and seek information at Hafod Hardware.

Golfers have the choice of three 18-hole courses nearby at Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Llanidloes and a further three courses are within an easy drive.

Cycle the country lane from your Lodge or try one of the National Cycle Routes. The Elan Valley cycle track runs alongside the reservoirs is one of the most scenic tracks in the country. Mountain bike trails of various colours to suit all abilities are established and experience the Pump Track Wales in Rhayader. Cycle hire is an option from Clive Powell’s Cycle Shop or the Elan Valley Visitor Centre.

Wildlife and Nature

Birdwatching is mandatory Lon Lodges, Buzzards, Red Kites, Woodpeckers and many more in the skies, it is a birdwatcher’s paradise! Visit the popular Red Kite Feeding station at Gigrin Farm for a spectacular watch.

Wildlife Trusts run many of the local Nature Reserves. The Elan Valley is an area of outstanding beauty abundant in wildlife. And the Gilfach Reserve is an old hill farm with glorious views, rich in wildlife and heritage. The landscape ranges from woodland to moorland, wetland to meadow.

Fungi Forays can be booked to explore the wonder of the wild mushroom world. Fungi-fanatic Daniel Butler will arrange forays and give an insight into all types of mushrooms.

Rich in Heritage

Be amazed at the Victorian engineering of the Elan Valley Dams built to serve water to the city of Birmingham. Visit local heritage exhibitions at CARAD – Timescape Rhayader, or tour the nearby restored Thomas Shop and Museum. The National Cycling Museum in Llandrindod Wells houses the finest collection of cycles anywhere in Europe. Step into the acclaimed Judge’s Lodging, discover the world of Victorian Judges in nearby Presteigne. Visit Powis Castle, a medieval castle which houses fine collections and has beautiful gardens.

Fun Day Trips

So many varied day trips to some exciting places. Families can enjoy the nearby indoor soft play and outdoor go carting at Quacker’s Barn, the Small Breeds Farm Park and Owl Centre, the Llangorse Multi Activity Centre with zip wires and indoor wall climbing in the Brecon Beacons, or Ten Pin Bowling at UStrike.

Adventure days could include visiting the award-winning Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynleth or King Arthur’s Labyrinth and be guided underground to hear tales of dragons, myths and legends.

Scenic drives over the mountain road to Devil’s Bridge to visit the unique waterfalls dating back centuries. From here take the Vale of Rheidol steam train to Aberystwyth for an Edwardian adventure.

Coastal day trips to Cardigan Bay, visit sandy beaches and book a Dolphin Boat trip. Explore the coastal Ynyslas Nature Reserve with superb dunes and views over the Dyfi Estuary.

Private excursions into the Cambrian Mountains can be arranged with a local tour guide. Welsh Overland Safaris and Cambrian Safaris offer a great experience and a wealth of knowledge while touring the unspoilt landscapes.

Relaxation, Fitness and Therapy

Rhayader Leisure Centre has a 20m swimming pool, fitness gym and indoor squash courts. Book a fabulous spa day at the Metropole Hotel and Spa in Llandrindod Wells or enquire about local Relaxation Therapists to suit your individual needs.

Food, Drink and Entertainment

Rhayader has street cafés, coffee shops and pubs serving good food and a range of traditional ales. Restaurants offering a finer dining menu are nearby. Fish and Chips and takeaway meals of many cuisines including Chinese, Indian, Thai & Turkish are all close.

Treat yourself to a home cooked meal or an afternoon tea box freshly prepared and delivered to your Lodge. Or indulge in booking a private chef to cook and serve you a delicious meal in the privacy of your Lodge.

Sample locally grown grown organic foods and drinks from the Cambrian Mountains at the Wild Swan Deli or pre-order a luxury hamper. Bob the Butcher has quality Welsh meats and can supply any requirement of BBQ boxes or meats.

Evening Entertainment is found in the local music venues, pubs and theatres. View the latest films at the Wyeside cinema in Builth Wells.

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