Enjoying the Brecon Beacons by Horseback, Bike, Glider, Boat or Canoe

The Brecon Beacons National Park is a hikers dream thanks to its stunning landscape but a company that works to promote the region has sought to highlight other ways to enjoy the region if you fancy a change from walking.

Their five alternative ways to explore the beauty of the park include on a bike, by horseback, weaving along in a canoe, sailing in a boat or even taking a trip over the Park as a passenger in a glider.

Pedal across the Brecon Beacons

From towpaths and lanes to hillside tracks, the Brecon Beacons offer a variety of terrains which are perfect for a mountain-bike adventure. New for 2017, the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority has launched a new mountain biking guide which includes 12 mapped routes. Routes offer short and long rides for all skill levels and guides riders through open forests, wide country lanes, steep hills and challenging drops. Mountain-biking guide packs can be purchased online for £8.50. 

Horse around the Welsh mountains

Home to acres of hills, moors and fields, the Brecon Beacons National Park is the ultimate place for an unforgettable horse riding experience. The 600 miles of bridle paths and tracks take visitors through the heart of the Brecon Beacons, featuring breath-taking views and a wealth of wildlife. The Cantref Riding Centre, based in the central hills of the Brecon Beacons, offers a variety of horse riding treks lasting from just one hour up to a full day and ensures all riding abilities are catered for. Hour long treks are available from £21.50 for children and £24.75 for adults. 

Weave along the River Wye

Water-lovers will not be left disappointed as the River Wye provides the perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing canoe ride through the beautiful and unspoilt landscapes of the Brecon Beacons. Visitors can discover the beauty of the Black Mountains, Hay Bluff and Lord Hereford’s Knob as they drift along the calm waters. Wye Valley Canoes offer a five mile canoeing trip from their centre of Hay-on-Wye, from £25 per person. 

Drift over Charming Countryside

Visitors can soar above mountain ridges and glide over flawless scenery as they experience the Brecon Beacons from a new perspective on a unique gliding adventure. Black Mountains Gliding Club welcomes all visitors to experience the thrill of flying, from novices looking for a beginner’s trial flight, to expert pilots wanting to experience the excellent flying conditions the area has to offer. Trial lessons are available from £95 per person. 

Cruise down the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is one of the most beautiful canals in the UK. This historic waterway is the perfect place to slow down the pace and enjoy the views over farmland, woodlands and mountains between Brecon and Cwmbran. Dragon Fly Cruises offer canal boat rides from £7.80 for adults and £4.50 for children.