If you're planning a trip to South Wales in the near future, don't miss the Brecon Beacon's National Park, this is one of this area's premier attractions and with good reason too. The Brecon Beacons is one of the most popular National Parks in the region and, frankly, it's plain to see why. Encompassing a truly impressive mountain range, the park boasts a great many attractions and points of interest. Here are some things you ought to know about what the Brecon Beacons has to offer before planning your exciting getaway.
Click to view Brecon Beacons holiday cottages
The joy of home territory
In the United Kingdom, we often overlook the beauty available on our home soil. Sure, we don’t always get the hottest summers, but when it comes to a successful holiday, it boils down to a lot more than just sunshine. In fact, if it’s beautiful and varied landscapes with plenty to see and do you’re after, the UK really is ideal. That’s why so many people nowadays are opting for a good old-fashioned British holiday, rather than an expensive overseas expedition. Not only will you avoid hours upon hours of stressful travelling by holidaying in the UK, you’ll also know the lingo – and the food!
Self-catering country cottage holiday in the Brecon Beacons
Probably the most relaxing holiday you can embark on in the UK is a self-catering cottage break in the country. This is a great opportunity to set up base in an area of outstanding natural beauty and leisurely explore your surroundings, all while benefitting from a comfortable cottage haven at the end of the day – which certainly beats a tent! Don’t worry if you’re void of ideas either, as we’re blessed with an array of government-backed National Parks, meaning you’re never more than a couple of hours’ drive from a wonderful expanse of natural beauty.
The UK is home to 15 National Parks in total, which are spread across England, Scotland and Wales. Every park has its own character and plenty of reasons to visit, but some certainly attract more interest than others. One of the most popular parks is the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales, which is a true hiker’s paradise. At any given time in the Brecon Beacons you’ll find keen dog walkers, cyclists, kayakers – even orienteering groups ranging from school classes through to pensioner-age groups.
The Brecon Beacons National Park isn’t only good for walking and cycling, though; it’s also incredibly picturesque thanks to its mountainous terrain and abundance of flowing water. The park is undoubtedly a great place for family adventures too, owing to the fact that there is so much to see and do. So whether you’re interested in abseiling, rock climbing, water sports, or simply enjoying a good meal at one of the many excellent pubs or restaurants in the region, you won’t be let down. And if you hate leaving your family pets behind, there’s surely no better place to bring them along for the fun than the Brecon Beacons, which is undoubtedly a paradise for our four-legged friends. It’s actually easier than ever to your pets on holiday, as there are so many cottage owners who are willing to accommodate animals – although this may come at an extra cost.
The Brecon Beacons National Park is equally suited to a romantic getaway for two, as its hundreds of walking routes provide a scenic backdrop for hand-in-hand afternoon strolls. There are plenty of excellent gastro pubs to frequent too, which make all those miles on foot extra rewarding. In fact, the superb range of pubs and restaurants in the Brecon Beacons is as good a reason as any to go for self-catering accommodation, as you aren’t tied down to eating in any one place at any certain time (it’s that freedom that makes holidays special after all). And when it comes to self-catering accommodation, there’s nothing more romantic than a luxurious, rustic cottage in the countryside.
Lots of holiday rentals in the Brecon Beacons
The good news about cottage hunting in the Brecon Beacons National Park is that there are so many rentals to choose from. If you visit any website dedicated to UK cottage holidays – and there are plenty of them – you’ll discover there are cottages for quite literally every occasion in the area. So if you want five bedrooms for a couples’ retreat, you won’t have to scour the internet’s entirety. Or if you would love accommodation that comes with bicycle rental and a power shower, you’ll be pleased to know you can easily source it. The search tools available are so useful, in fact, that you can look for a cottage with just about anything included. So if you want Wi-Fi to keep an eye on emails or carry out on-the-fly research while you’re away, a hot tub for relaxing and a barbecue for entertaining friends – you’re in luck! It’s as if you are able to choose bespoke accommodation at no extra cost with the click of a button.
So, we know the Brecon Beacons and other National Parks are ideal destinations for self-catering cottage breaks, and it’s easier than ever to find your affordable dream accommodation – much easier than it would be overseas. Which, of course, begs the question: what are you waiting for?
Visit the Brecon Beacon's many Standing Stones
Should you take a ramble in the Brecon Beacons National Park, there's a few points of interest you may want to keep your eyes out for. There are over 30 mysterious standing stones throughout the area, many of which are thought to be prehistoric. There are many theories about why the large stones were situated in such a way. Some are likely memorial tributes while others could be landmarks that once helped people find their way. It's worth researching them before you head out so you can try to spot as many as possible.
Experience the Brecon Beacons on Horse Back
Fancy taking some horse riding lessons on your next getaway? Throughout the Brecon Beacons National Park, you will find a broad array of riding schools and centres. It honestly does not matter what your experience level is when it comes to riding, you can certainly find an activity that suits you. From lessons for beginners to organised riding sessions, there's something for everyone. Be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Check out Carreg Cennen Castle
History buffs will be pleased to hear that this Welsh region is brimming with points of interest for them to enjoy. Take the Carreg Cennen Castle, for example. The historical ruins are a must-see for any tourist. Plus, a walk to this isolated hilltop is simply ideal for a family day out too. A mere four miles away from Llandeilo, the ruins draw many people to the area every single year. While gazing at its remains, you should know that this was not the first castle on the site. In fact, back in the 12th and 13th Centuries, Prince Rhys Ap Gruffydd of Wales, had a wooden construction here. Around a hundred years later, John Giffard built the awe-inspiring stone building you see the ruins of today.
Visit Charming Towns in and around the Brecon Beacons
If you're looking for a big slice of Welsh hospitality, you must take a trip to some local towns and spend some time there. From Abergavenny to Merthyr Tydfil, there are many places you will want to see. The Georgian town of Crickhowell is worth a trip, especially if you're a keen rambler. The town actually holds a walking festival on an annual basis. Before planning days out in these lovely little towns, be sure to check what's on in the area. You might just find an event you adore!
Gaze at the Stars in the Sky
Look up at the skies in any city and you're certain to see nothing but a deep, dark blackness. While light pollution has ruined our views of the sky in urban, built-up areas, you'll find it's quite a different story in the countryside. When you take a glance upward in the countryside of the Brecon Beacons, you should see a myriad of beaming stars shining down on you. Throughout the year, the National Park Authority actually organises a range of stargazing events, in which you may want to participate. If you miss the official events, though, you can simply take the time to view the stars alone.
The Brecon Beacons National Park is a stunning and awe inspiring place to holiday and a great place to enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer.