Brecon Beacons Itinerary
The Brecon Beacons Road Trip is a great way to explore the beauty of Wales. Starting in the historic town of Hay on Wye, the route takes you on a journey of 88 miles, through the towns of Brecon, Cefn Coed and Llandovery, before finishing in the town of Brynamman. This two-day road trip is best taken in the summer months, when the landscapes of Wales are at their most beautiful. You can expect to drive on a mixture of curvy and narrow roads, but overall the road conditions are good.
This road trip is perfect for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Wales, but can be managed on a moderate budget. With plenty of attractions to discover and picturesque views along the way, this road trip is sure to provide a high level of experience and memories.
2
number of days
142 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Hay on Wye
Distance 142 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
32.6 kWh
Airports
CWL
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BRS
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Hay on Wye is a small market town in the southeast of Wales, nestled in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green grass, Hay on Wye is an ideal starting point for the Brecon Beacons Road Trip.
Hay on Wye is a town rich in culture, with a variety of interesting sights to visit. The town is renowned for its abundance of second-hand bookstores, which are a must-see for any book-lover. There are also various historic monuments, including the ruins of a 12th century castle and St Mary's Church. The town also boasts a variety of independent shops and cafes, ideal for browsing and grabbing a bite to eat.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Cardiff Airport (CWL). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the area by car. From Cardiff, Hay on Wye can be reached in just over an hour, making it the perfect starting point for the Brecon Beacons Road Trip.
Visiting Hay on Wye is a great way to kick off the Brecon Beacons Road Trip. With an abundance of culture, history, and a plethora of independent shops and cafes, Hay on Wye is a great way to get to know the area before starting your journey.
1
Hay on Wye
- Brecon
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: slow
6.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Hay on Wye to Brecon? This 18 mi drive will take you fewer than 1 hour, and you will get to explore some of the most interesting places in Wales.
Starting in Hay on Wye, you will get to explore the beautiful countryside and the iconic Hay Castle. Make sure to also visit the Hay Festival, a renowned literary event held annually in the town.
As you make your way to Brecon, you will drive through some of the most stunning landscapes in Wales, with narrow sections of the road. Make sure to take plenty of photos along the way! Once you arrive in Brecon, you will get to explore the Brecon Beacons National Park, a natural paradise with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploration.
Don't forget to visit the Brecon Cathedral, a 12th-century church, and the Brecon Jazz Festival, one of the most important music events in the UK.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Hay on Wye to Brecon!
Brecon - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Brecon - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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2
Brecon
- Cefn Coed
Distance 33 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: slow
7.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip adventure starting in Brecon, Wales and make your way through the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park. The 20 miles journey will take you less than an hour, winding through picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. As you drive, keep your eyes open for historical sites and other attractions along the way. Be aware that some sections of the road may be narrow and winding, but the views are absolutely worth it. At the end of your journey you will arrive at Cefn Coed, the perfect destination to end this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an amazing journey!
Cefn Coed - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
Cefn Coed - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Cefn Coed
- Llandovery
Distance 49 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: fast
14.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Cefn Coed and ending in Llandovery! Along this 30mi journey, you will get to explore the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park and all its wonders. From picturesque landscapes to historical sites, this route is sure to please. The winding roads and narrow sections are sure to be a thrilling ride, and you'll get to your destination in less than an hour. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the most stunning sights in Wales! Don't forget to check out the itinerary for this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure you won't soon forget!
Llandovery - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Geograph
Llandovery - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Llandovery - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Geograph
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4
Llandovery
- Brynamman
Distance 31 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
8.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a thrilling road trip through the stunning Welsh countryside! Starting in Llandovery, you'll make your way through the Brecon Beacons National Park, a stunning area of rolling hills, lush valleys, and ancient forests. As you drive, take in the picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and historical sites. Keep an eye out for the narrow sections of road and the many curves in the road. In no time you'll reach Brynamman, the end of this 20mi journey that will take less than 1 hour to complete. During your drive, make sure to take plenty of pictures of the beautiful scenery, and take a few moments to appreciate the history of this area. If you're looking for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Brynamman - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Brynamman
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Brynamman, a village in the county of Carmarthenshire in Wales, is the perfect ending point to any Brecon Beacons Road Trip. Located on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Brynamman is a great destination to end your journey.
The village itself is a great place to explore and offers a variety of attractions. From the ruins of the old Castell-Y-Bwch Castle to the remains of the former coal mining industry, Brynamman offers a glimpse into the past. The village is also home to the stunning and serene Llanerch-y-Mor lake.
For those traveling by car, Brynamman is easily accessible from many of the major cities in Wales. From Cardiff, it’s only a two hour drive and from Swansea, it’s just an hour and a half.
For those traveling by air, the Cardiff Airport (CWL) is the closest international airport to Brynamman and is just over an hour away by car.
No matter how you travel, Brynamman is the perfect destination to end your road trip and experience the beauty of Wales.
Brynamman - Wales - Europe - Scenic Drive - Geograph
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Brecon Beacons at a glance
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Start:
Hay on Wye
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End:
Brynamman
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Distance:
142 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Cardiff International Airport (CWL),
Bristol Airport (BRS)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Brecon Beacons Road Trip is an enchanting drive through the heart of Wales, spanning an impressive 88 miles from the literary haven of Hay on Wye to the rugged landscapes of Brynamman. Ideal for a two-day adventure, this journey showcases the diverse beauty of the Welsh countryside and its rich cultural heritage.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Hay on Wye: Celebrated for its plethora of bookshops, this unique town also hosts the internationally acclaimed Hay Festival of Literature & Arts each year, drawing book lovers from around the globe.
- Brecon: Not only is it the home of the majestic Brecon Cathedral, but this market town also serves as the primary gateway to the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering a glimpse into military history at the Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh.
- Cefn Coed: A picturesque spot known for its serene landscapes and miles of walking trails, including the scenic Taf Fechan forest.
- Llandovery: This historic market town is steeped in history, featuring the remains of Llandovery Castle and a rich pastoral heritage reflected in its vibrant farmer's market.
- Brynamman: This village marks the culmination of your journey at the southern boundary of the Black Mountains, where the untamed natural beauty of the region is on full display.
Best Time to Go:
Experience this Road Trip in its prime during the summer months when the landscapes of Wales burst into life with lush greenery and the weather is most conducive to outdoor activities. However, the changing seasons each offer their unique charm, with spring's fresh blooms and autumn's fiery hues.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be mindful of the challenging driving conditions presented by the winding and narrow Welsh Roads. Additionally, the local weather can change rapidly, so it's wise to be equipped for rain or fog, which can obscure the stunning vistas and require extra caution when driving.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Brecon Beacons National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the UK for stargazing.
- The route traverses through a region rich in Welsh mythology and folklore, with stories of ancient battles and legendary figures.
- The landscape is dotted with evidence of Wales' industrial past, including historic coal mines and ironworks.
A good choice for:
The Brecon Beacons Road Trip is an unforgettable exploration for travelers seeking to connect with the awe-inspiring landscapes and compelling cultural narrative of Wales. With ample opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and indulging in Welsh cuisine, this journey promises a rich experience on a moderate budget. Whether you're staying in cozy B or boutique hotels, you'll find warmth and hospitality all along your route through the Welsh heartlands.
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