Elan Valley Reservoirs — Local services in Great Britain

Elan Valley Reservoirs: A Driver's Paradise with Breathtaking Backdrops

The Elan Valley reservoirs are a hidden gem in Wales, offering not just scenic beauty but also a thrilling driving experience. Here's a breakdown of my exploration of this stunning location:

A Driver's Dream: Buckle up! The roads snaking around the Elan Valley reservoirs are simply phenomenal. Smooth tarmac winds through rolling hills and past the serene waters, creating a driving experience unlike any other in the UK. Whether you're a seasoned petrolhead or simply enjoy a scenic cruise, these roads will leave you wanting more. The twists and turns keep things engaging, while the surrounding landscape provides a constantly changing backdrop.

Six Reservoirs, Six Times the Beauty: The true magic of the Elan Valley lies in its collection of not just one, but six reservoirs. Each reservoir has its own unique character and charm. Some hug the valleys tightly, while others sprawl out majestically. Stopping off at various points allows you to soak in the diverse beauty of the valley from different perspectives.

Beyond the Wheel: While the driving experience is a major draw, the Elan Valley offers more than just a thrill ride. The reservoirs are surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, perfect for a leisurely walk or hike. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at cycling or kayaking on the calm waters.

A Place for Relaxation: After a day of exploration, find a spot by the reservoir and simply unwind. The serenity of the place is undeniable. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the gentle lapping of water, and let the stress melt away.

Planning Your Trip: The Elan Valley is a vast area, so planning your visit beforehand is recommended. Choose a route that incorporates the specific reservoirs you'd like to see, keeping in mind the driving distances. If you plan on venturing out on foot or bike, be sure to check the designated trails and paths.

Overall: The Elan Valley reservoirs are a must-visit for anyone seeking a scenic escape. Whether you're a driving enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a relaxing day trip, this hidden gem has something to offer everyone. Just be sure to factor in driving times, plan your route, and pack essentials like snacks, water, and comfortable shoes if you plan on exploring...

What's not to like about miles of interlinked reservoirs surrounded by deep rich Welsh hills and forests?.. It was a joy to use the mostly flat and very well maintained paths that snake around the different lake's perimeter. We walked up the east side of most of the lakes using the bridal/cycle path (what was open to walk along, as mentioned below)

There was one big gripe; the Visitors Centre had clean porta loos and a good outdoors coffee/snack facility, and up-and-running bike hire (that's despite the actual centre itself being closed for COVID restrictions), which was great and a good start to a walk, but zero information anywhere there about the closure of a key part of the pathway on the east side of the middle of the lakes, meaning what should have been a long and easy circular walk around all the lakes had to be abruptly cut short.

Quite frustrating as all they had to do was stick one sticker on the main map signboard in the centre car park and on the leaflet maps that are on the cycle hire desk, or put a little sign up somewhere in the car park warning of it before we all set off, hardly challenging.

The maps that are on the actual closure fence itself when you suddenly get there show a baffling detour on a little portion of a OS map, that no one else could fathom either. Geographers and map-using walkers may fare better than we did with it!

That aside, when the trail is fully open again I would imagine that this beautiful place is well worth returning to from season to season. I will be...

The Elan Valley Reservoirs are a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The scenery here is stunning, with rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear water stretching as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re driving through, hiking, cycling, or just taking a leisurely walk, the views are nothing short of spectacular.

There are plenty of well-marked trails to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, all offering picturesque views of the reservoirs and surrounding landscape. The dams are engineering marvels, and the history behind them adds another layer of interest to your visit. There’s a visitor center that provides helpful information about the area’s history, wildlife, and the construction of the dams.

This is a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with plenty of opportunities to relax by the water, have a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty. It’s also a fantastic spot for photographers – you’ll want to bring your camera because every angle offers a postcard-worthy view.

The area is well-maintained, and the facilities are good, though it’s quite remote, so it’s best to be prepared with supplies if you’re planning a longer visit.

If you’re looking for a serene, scenic getaway in the heart of Wales, Elan Valley is absolutely worth the trip. Highly recommended for anyone who loves nature and the...