Hiking Near Llanwrtyd Wells: Routes and Refreshment Stops
Set in the heart of Mid Wales, Llanwrtyd Wells is surrounded by open hills, quiet lanes, riverside paths and forestry tracks. It’s an ideal base for walkers looking for peaceful landscapes, varied terrain and rewarding views without the crowds found in busier national parks.
Whether you’re planning a short circular walk or a full-day upland hike, here’s how to explore the area — and where to refuel afterwards.
Why Hike Around Llanwrtyd Wells?
The appeal of hiking in this part of Mid Wales is simple:
Big skies and open horizons
Minimal traffic and low footfall
Rolling Cambrian terrain
A mix of river valleys, woodland and moorland
The surrounding Cambrian Mountains provide a sense of space and remoteness that’s increasingly rare.
Irfon Valley Walks
The River Irfon runs through Llanwrtyd Wells and west toward Abergwesyn, creating accessible walking options close to town.
What to Expect:
Riverside sections
Woodland paths
Gentle gradients
Opportunities to extend into longer loops
These routes are ideal for relaxed half-day walks or combining with a longer upland route.
Cwm Rhaeadr Waterfall Trail
A short drive or steady walk from town brings you to Cwm Rhaeadr.
This woodland trail leads to one of Mid Wales’ most impressive waterfalls.
Highlights include:
Clearly defined paths
Gradual ascent through forest
A dramatic waterfall viewpoint
Options to extend onto surrounding hills
It’s suitable for most walkers with sturdy footwear and is especially atmospheric after rainfall.
Abergwesyn & The Devil’s Staircase
To the west lies Abergwesyn, known among cyclists for the Devil’s Staircase climb — but walkers can enjoy the surrounding upland routes without tackling steep tarmac gradients.
Walking here offers:
Remote moorland terrain
Long, open ridge lines
Quiet single-track lanes
Sweeping valley views
This area feels wilder and more exposed, so map-reading skills and weather awareness are important.
Elan Valley Extension
For longer hikes, head toward the spectacular reservoirs and dams of the Elan Valley.
The Elan Valley provides:
Waymarked lakeside paths
Forest trails
Higher-level ridge walks
Waterfall spurs and dam viewpoints
It’s an excellent option for full-day walking with varied terrain and clear navigation.
Upland & Moorland Routes
The hills surrounding Llanwrtyd Wells offer endless route-building potential.
Expect:
Sheep-grazed hillsides
Trackless moorland sections
Wide panoramas
Changing ground conditions
These routes reward preparation and offer true Mid Wales solitude.
Practical Hiking Advice for Mid Wales
Conditions can shift quickly, especially on exposed ground.
Plan for:
Waterproof layers
Proper walking boots
OS map or GPS navigation
Extra water and snacks
Limited mobile signal in remote areas
Respect gates, livestock and farmland access at all times.
Refreshment Stops in Llanwrtyd Wells
After time on the hills, Llanwrtyd Wells provides a welcome return to civilisation.
TOST is an independent coffee shop in town serving speciality coffee alongside light bites, pastries and cakes baked on site. It’s well positioned for walkers finishing routes from the Irfon Valley, Cwm Rhaeadr or the surrounding uplands.
With indoor seating and quality coffee, it’s a comfortable place to warm up after winter hikes or cool down during summer walks.
Best Time of Year to Walk
Spring and early summer bring:
Fresh green hills
Longer daylight
Wildflowers in valley sections
Autumn offers:
Rich woodland colours
Crisp, clear days
Fewer midges
Winter hiking is possible but requires proper gear and shorter route planning due to daylight hours.
A Walking Base in the Heart of Mid Wales
Llanwrtyd Wells works well as a hiking base because:
Multiple routes start directly from town
You can combine riverside and upland terrain
It remains quiet even in peak season
Refreshments are available at the end of your walk
For walkers seeking open space, quiet paths and authentic Mid Wales landscapes, this small town delivers far more than its size suggests.
