Outdoor Pursuits in The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park. There is so much to do – it makes the perfect choice for an activity holiday. Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, horse riding, climbing or sailing there’s something for everyone.
Cycling is a fun, environmentally friendly and exciting way to explore the region. The spectacular scenery provides a wonderful landscape to cycle through. Cruise along the country lanes or enjoy the tranquillity of the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal. There’s something for everyone whether you just want a sedate family outing or a more adventurous mountain bike ride. There are four traffic free family trails in the National Park. Facilities include bike and trailer hire, picnic areas and play areas. The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) boasts some of the finest mountain biking in the United Kingdom. There is a huge network of varied trails which cater for beginners through to experts.
If you enjoy walking you will adore this National Park. You can take leisurely strolls through picturesque valleys or alternatively hike up mountains. The Beacons Way is a one hundred and one mile, eight day walking route across Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). The walk takes in some of the most spectacular scenery in the area. The park offers a number of wildlife walks where you can spot different species of flora and fauna.
It is thought that Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) has some of the best horse riding countryside in Europe. It has been awarded the BHS Access Award for the National Park most active in opening up equestrian routes. There are many riding centres in the park offering a variety of treks, hacks and trails.
The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) also offers excellent opportunities for climbers. There are approximately four hundred climbs in the area and these are described by the South Wales Mountaineering Club. There are also indoor climbing facilities at Llangorse Climbing and Riding Centre and the Welsh International Climbing Centre at Taff Bargoed.
Some of the most important cave systems in Europe are found in the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park. There are many centres that offer courses for all abilities from beginners to experts.
There are many waterways in the National Park making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The River Usk from Brecon to Abergavenny is particularly good for sporting kayaking. The river, however, is not navigable throughout its length and restrictions apply.
Sailing and windsurfing are possible at Llangorse Lake and Pontsticill Reservoir. Llangorse Lake is the largest natural lake in south wales. It is also possible to go water skiing here.
This Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) and surrounding area has eight golf courses making it a good choice for those of you looking for an interesting location for a golf holiday.
