Cocooning Mid Wales in a blanket of lush landscapes and tranquil corners, Powys beckons to all who seek a serene stroll through ancient scenes. From the rich drama of the Brecon Beacons National Park to enchanting valleys and dappled woodlands, the spellbinding heart of Wales welcomes visitors to escape into nature with ease.
Uncover the majesty of waterfalls, bask in the beauty of nature as you trace winding paths across rolling fields, and sink into a rural reverie as you pause amongst the trees in wood-tipped valleys.
Feeling the call of the wild? Explore these meandering walks in Powys to reveal a world steeped in wonder.
Pen y Fan
Home to an array of winsome walks, the Brecon Beacons National Park is a haven for outdoor pursuits. Whether you long for the satisfaction of a 100-mile trek completed over a week or the gentle rewards of an afternoon stroll framed by panoramic views, this sprawling park has something for every adventure. For a mesmerising display of breathtaking vistas, hike to the summit of Pen y Fan, the tallest peak in South Wales. A circular walk that takes in both Pen y Fan and the summit of Corn Du, this 4-mile trek takes you across some of the most magical landscapes in Powys. Marvel at steep drops that reveal layers of prehistoric rock, refresh with picnics by trickling streams, and pause for a moment in nature as you savour the exquisite views that gather sloping valleys and mirror-topped reservoirs for one all-encompassing scene.
Your walk begins at the Pont ar Daf car park, where an uphill path leads you to Bwlch Duwynt (Welsh for Windy Pass), then to the saddle between Pen y Fan and Corn Du. Here, sweeping views across Neuadd Valley and beyond await, perfect for photographers and those who simply wish to soak up the surrounding scenery. The summit of Corn Du lies to the west, and promises rambling vistas and a Bronze Age burial chamber. Your return journey takes you past ancient obelisks, gentle streams, and moss-dipped kissing gates.
Hafren Forest
Home to one of the most photographed woodland trails in the UK, Hafren Forest captures the hearts and imaginations of all who visit. A wooden boardwalk winds through the ancient forest, creating an enchanting, accessible trail that promises dreamy views over tumbling waterfalls. Known for its curious name and stunning scenes, the Severn-Breaks-Its-Neck trail is an enchanting stroll you can cover in an hour, with views across thundering falls as your reward. The River Severn draws the eye, whether you love watching the gentle waters flow past or you become spellbound by the dramatic sights of the falls tumbling over rock and stone.
A trail that takes in every aspect of the winding river is the beautiful Source of the Severn Trail, which takes you along an 8-mile walking route past the famous Blaen Hafren Falls, through the ancient forest, and past standing stones and historic farmsteads to reach the river’s source in Pumlumon. For those seeking an exhilarating challenge, Hafren Forest is the starting or ending point for several beloved long-distance trails, including the Wye Valley Walk (136 miles) and the Severn Way (210 miles). Both of these routes feature a collage of landscapes, inviting you to enjoy smaller sections here and there, or one soul-stirring hike across two treasured weeks.
Elan Valley
Known locally as the Welsh Lake District, Elan Valley promises a heady mix of shimmering lakes, rich woodland, and rolling countryside, making it a perfect playground for walkers. You’ll find over 80 miles of designated trails, from easy strolls that offer tranquil moments aplenty to intermediate climbs that deliver magical views across the Cambrian Mountains. One of the easier trails is the old railway line that wends from the Visitor Centre to Craig Goch, boasting glorious views across the dam and reservoir. The path is wheel-friendly and promises gentle gradients that can be enjoyed at your own pace while absorbing the beauty of the area.
For a more challenging trek, the circular trail around Garreg Ddu is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Explore fairytale woodlands, arcadian fields, and the remains of Cwm Elan House Gardens, as well as the striking vista of the Garreg Ddu Viaduct as it arches above the glittering waters below. As enchanting as the scenery is under the golden rays of the sun, at night, the valley comes alive with star-flecked magic. Elen Valley is one of the most popular stargazing destinations in Wales, boasting International Dark Sky Park status and several spots to turn your gaze to the heavens.
Pistyll Rhaedr Waterfall
Walking in Powys is made for waterfall chasers, with a number of the country’s most spellbinding falls residing in this patchwork county. One of the most unforgettable waterfall walks in Powys is the short yet spectacular stroll to Pistyll Rhaedr, the tallest single-drop waterfall in the UK.
Nestled in a valley shaped by the last Ice Age thousands of years ago, Pistyll Rhaedr is a thundering reminder of the power of nature. There are two trails you can choose from; the left-hand gate from the car park takes you to the base of the waterfall, where water-speckled air glistens around you as the spray from the falls curls and dances to the ground. The right-hand gate leads you to the higher viewpoint, which affords spectacular scenes backed by the steady beat of the river toppling into the waters below.
As with any waterfall, the sights are best experienced after heavy rainfall, when the currents rush past and dive to the ground in a rich applause of water on stone. For those seeking refreshments, a charming café resides nearby, or you can head a little further afield to dine at the only restaurant in Wales to hold two Michelin Stars, Ynyshir.
Offa’s Dyke Path
Running from North to South Wales along the 8th-century border between England and Wales, this 177-mile walking route invites you to explore an array of changing landscapes, whether you’re visiting for two blissful days or two memorable weeks. Boasting sun-dappled valleys, wind-hewn ridges, and ancient landmarks peppered across the historic course, it’s easy to see why Lonely Planet lists Offa’s Dyke Path as one of the greatest walks in the world.
Powys holds the longest section of this rambling trail, offering a series of dreamy tracks to uncover during your stay. Starting and ending in the charming literary haven of Hay-on-Wye, the Hay Bluff circular walk is a lovely way to enjoy one of the walk’s picturesque sections. Stroll through magical fairy glens, climb the picturesque heights of Hay Bluff, and finish your stroll with a tour of the town, soaking up the welcoming bookshops and cosy cafés as you go.
A popular walking route close to Builth Wells, the Presteigne circular is an irresistible path that carves its way through the verdant countryside, passing through many medieval landmarks, including an earthwork castle and the remnants of a post-medieval rabbit farm.
Ratgoed Valley Circular
Nestled in the northern reaches of Powys, a stone’s throw from Eryri National Park, Ratgoed Valley beckons for undulating vistas and traditional stone walls. The circular walk begins by the fascinating Aberllefenni Slate Quarry and follows the base of two mountains, before leading you along a disused tramway.
Whether it’s sheep grazing in lush fields or streams ambling through the countryside, the walk promises timeless rural reveries in all seasons. Spot ancient stone buildings, pause for moments of solitude in the ancient woods that adorn the hillside, and marvel at the quiet beauty this corner of Wales exudes.
While in the area, a short drive will take you to Penygader, one of the most beautiful hiking spots in southern Snowdonia. The paths that lead to the summit are long and challenging at times, but reward you with some of the most magical panoramas in the country, unfurling across the sweeping landscapes below and the wind-ruffled waters of the mountain’s idyllic lake.
Ystradfellte Waterfalls Walk
Known also as the Four Waterfalls Walk, this magic-infused route in the Brecon Beacons takes in four of Powys’ enchanting waterfalls in one arresting 4.5-mile trail. Best enjoyed in spring and autumn when the seasons cast their captivating cloak over the landscape, this walk invites you to leave the everyday behind as you seek a bewitching experience beneath a swaying canopy.
Each of the falls promises an unforgettable view, whether it's the tiered allure of Sgwd y Pannwr or the dramatic photo opportunities of Sgwd yr Eira, which invites you to step behind the curtain of water as it tumbles to the ground. The walk can begin at either the Cwm Porth or Gwaun Hepste car parks, before leading you through ancient moss-clad woodlands steeped in mystery. Arriving at Sgwd Clun-Gwyn first, spend a moment to bask in the majesty of nature as the River Mellte cascades to the earth - truly a sight to behold, especially after heavy rainfall.
The second and third waterfalls, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd y Pannwr, lie down a small path lined with lichen-rich trees. As you approach Sgwd y Pannwr, listen out for the distant roar of the waterfall as the sound echoes through the woodland, joining the peaceful melody of rustling leaves and birdsong. When you reach the falls, inviting plunge pools promise a refreshing pause, or you can continue on to Sgwd yr Eira for the chance to walk behind the waterfall. The thick sheet of water that pours down the black rock is an experience like no other, and well worth the climb down.
Feeling inspired for a breathtaking sojourn? Explore our luxury cottages in Wales.
