Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Aberystwyth & Mid-Wales
Why Go?
Bordered by the dramatic landscapes of two national parks, Mid-Wales is often overlooked
but this region of lustrous green fields, wooded river valleys and small market towns is
something of a well-kept secret. This is Wales at its most rural, a sweep of undulating hills
that the Industrial Revolution bypassed, and there's a wonderful, unhurried charm to dis-
covering its winding back roads. Criss-crossed with country lanes and dedicated cycling
and walking routes, it's an excellent area to explore under your own steam. Apart from ex-
uberant, student-populated Aberystwyth, you won't find much excitement in the urban
areas, it's the places in between, and the people who live in them, that are far more interest-
ing. From struggling farmers to pioneers of sustainable development and the weird and
wacky minds of Britain's smallest town, Llandrindod Wells, the region reveals more about
the Welsh than you may ever have imagined.
When to Go
Long days and the promise of fine weather make June to September the best time to tackle
long-distance walking routes such as Offa's Dyke Path, while the wonderful foliage colours
make autumn perfect for walking or cycling the wooded trails around the Elan Valley.
Festivals abound in the summer months with oddballs taking part in some of the weirdest
sporting events on the planet in Llanwrtyd Wells in May, June and July; a massive celebra-
tion of rural life at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show at the beginning of July; and a look
back in time at the Victorian Festival in Llandrindod Wells in late August.
Best Places to Eat
»
The 25 Mile (
Click here
)
»
Checkers (
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)
»
Drawing Room (
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)
»
Ultracomida (
Click here
)
»
Carlton Riverside (
Click here
)
