“October gave a party; The leaves by hundreds came – The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples, And leaves of every name. The Sunshine spread a carpet, And everything was grand, Miss Weather led the dancing, Professor Wind the band.” George Cooper
Autumn has arrived in West Wales and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the colours and peace of our beautiful countryside at this time of year. Here are just three: walk, cycle and drive.
Walk
If an energetic hike in the hills is your cup of tea, head to the Preseli Hills or the Brecon Beacons to enjoy panoramic views of the autumn landscape.
Rounded hills covered in gold and brown bracken and heather await you in The Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire National Park. The hills are dotted with ancient remains such as hill forts, burial sites and the Celtic Golden Road, a path that traverses the length of the Preselis.
Walk to Bedd Arthur or Arthur’s Grave which sits on top of the Preseli ridge and overlooks the rocky outcrop of Carn Menyn, a site some suggest was a source of the bluestones used at Stonehenge.
The 520 square miles covered by the Brecon Beacons National Park includes Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain. The area has a rich history and is a paradise for anyone keen on outdoor activities.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Hafod Estate (Hafod Uchtryd), 12 miles south-east of Aberystwyth. Follow one or more of the 5 way-marked walks to enjoy the spectacular scenery and autumn colour.
Cycle
Brechfa Forest in the heart of Carmarthenshire and The Cambrian Mountains offer some of the best mountain biking trails in Britain.
Looking for a hair-raising ride or a gentle pedal with the family? – take your pick from easy to severe mountain bike trails in Brechfa Forest. The specially designed trails follow the streams, valleys and rich forest landscape which is a haven for wildlife all year round.
The Cambrian Mountains offer a peaceful, rugged landscape where you can really ‘get away from it all’, cycling a wide range of terrain ranging including some of Britain’s best downhill riding, rugged off road routes and wild forests.
Drive
If a less strenuous way to experience the beautiful West Wales countryside is more your style, there are plenty of stunning routes on quiet roads. Try the mountain pass on the A4069 between Brynaman and Llandovery over gorgeous moorland. Take time to stop along the way to enjoy the view or get closer to the mountain ponies.
Why not stay for a week in autumnal West Wales and explore its beauty in all three ways: walking, cycling and driving? To find the perfect place to stay, take a look at our fine selection of holiday cottages in West Wales.