3 days in the Cambrian Mountains

The Cambrian Mountains are Wales’ best-kept secret, a rugged, wild playground where the scenery does all the talking—and trust me, it’s got a lot to say. 

With ancient rocks as old as time and valleys carved by glaciers that make you feel small in the best way, this place is pure, unfiltered nature. 

Whether you're hiking, biking, or just gaping at the sweeping views, the Cambrians offer peace, quiet, and the more than occasional red kite soaring overhead. And if you need a break from all that tranquility, pop into a busy nearby Town for a pint or an award-winning meal after all, adventure needs fuel!

Day 1: The Heart of the Cambrian Mountains

Morning

Start your adventure in Llanidloes, a charming and quirky market town. Visit the historic Old Market Hall, one of the oldest timber-framed buildings in Wales, and enjoy the town’s vibrant arts and crafts scene.  

Don’t miss the Severn Way Trail for a leisurely riverside walk. Llanidloes is the first town on the River Severn, so it’s the perfect spot to explore the beginnings of Britain’s longest river.

Lunch

Have lunch at one of Llanidloes’ cosy cafés or pubs, where you can sample locally sourced ingredients and traditional Welsh dishes.

Afternoon

After lunch, make your way to the breathtaking Pumlumon Fawr, the highest peak in the Cambrian Mountains and the source of six major rivers, including the Severn and Wye. Discover the fascinating legends of the three sisters and their epic journeys to the sea.

Next, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hafren Forest. Hike through its enchanting trails to uncover stunning waterfalls and pristine landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual wanderer, the forest offers paths that cater to all levels of adventure.

Evening

Drive to Rhayader, the first town on the River Wye, for your evening stay. Enjoy a hearty dinner at one of Rhayader’s traditional pubs or restaurants, many of which serve award-winning Welsh cuisine.

Day 2: Elan Valley – The Lakeland of Wales

Morning 

Start your day by exploring the Elan Valley Estate, often called the “Lakeland of Wales.” This vast estate is home to a series of reservoirs and Victorian dams, set amidst dramatic landscapes.  

Begin with a visit to the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the engineering marvels that transformed this area into a vital water source for Birmingham.  

Afterward, take a scenic drive around the reservoirs or enjoy one of the many walking or cycling trails that crisscross the area.

Lunch  

Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking one of the picturesque reservoirs, or head back to Rhayader for a meal at one of the town’s local eateries.

Afternoon  

After lunch, explore the Cambrian Mountains Wildlife. Rhayader is a great starting point for spotting iconic species such as the red kite. You can visit a nearby Red Kite Feeding Station at Gigrin Farm to witness these majestic birds up close as they swoop down for their daily feed.  

Alternatively, take a hike or bike ride along the Monks Trod, an ancient trail that cuts through the moorland and valleys of the Cambrian Mountains, offering panoramic views and a sense of deep history.

Evening  

Head to Llanwrtyd Wells, known for its quirky sporting events such as bog snorkelling and the Man vs. Horse marathon. Stay overnight in one of the town’s welcoming inns or B&Bs, and enjoy an evening meal at an award-winning restaurant.

Day 3: History and Fossils in the Cambrian Mountains

Morning  

Begin your day in Builth Wells, home of the Royal Welsh Show, one of the largest agricultural events in Europe. If you’re visiting in summer, this bustling show is a fantastic experience. If not, the town is still worth exploring for its historic charm and nearby walking routes.  

From Builth Wells, head toward the Cambrian Fossil Trail, where you can explore one of the world’s best-preserved trilobite fossil sites. The area between Builth Wells and Llandrindod Wells is internationally famous for its prehistoric discoveries, and it’s a must for fossil enthusiasts.

Lunch 

Enjoy lunch in Llandrindod Wells, a Victorian spa town with elegant architecture and beautiful parks. Take a stroll around Llandrindod Lake and relax in one of the town’s charming cafés.

Afternoon  

After lunch, visit the Radnorshire Museum in Llandrindod Wells, which showcases the rich history of the region, from its prehistoric origins to its role as a fashionable spa destination.  

Evening  

Spend the night in Llandrindod or return to Llanwrtyd Wells or Builth Wells for your final evening. Treat yourself to a locally sourced dinner at a countryside inn and reflect on your adventures through this beautiful and rugged region.

Optional Activities:

Visit the Prince of Wales's Welsh residence at Llwynywermod, nestled in the Cambrian Mountains, or stay in one of the charming courtyard cottages on the estate.

The Cambrian Mountains Initiative supports local communities and sustainable tourism in this area, so your visit also contributes to conservation efforts.

Explore the Rainbow Trails for horse riding through the Dyfnant Forest, just east of the Cambrian Mountains.

Take a scenic drive along the Abergwesyn Pass, one of the most dramatic and remote roads in Wales, offering jaw-dropping views over moorland and valleys.