A stunning 6 mile walk from Drovers Retreat to Penybont Village
Recently I chose to walk to our local garage to collect my car after emergency maintenance. The direct, main road route is 4 miles or so, but the alternative, just shy of 6, and much more attractive. Living here we are spoilt for choice with the abundance of footpaths, bridleways and green lanes accessible from Drovers Retreat in some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK.
The entire Heart of Wales Line Trail is a wonderful 141 miles of walking, weaving between stations from Craven Arms in Shropshire all the way to Llanelli in South Wales, and the local Dolau station is on this line, just 2.5 miles away. Guests staying at the cottage can easily dip into a section of the trail within 5 minutes and I found myself doing just that on a pleasant June afternoon.
The Old Hall pond
On the path to Penybont
In less than 2 hours, serenaded by sky larks and constant bird song I arrived to collect the car. I had met no-one on the way. Only cows and sheep paid little attention to me and a couple of hares lolloped along in the distance. After a couple of steep rises along old green byways and leafy deserted lanes I was rewarded with far reaching views further into mid Wales and across to Llandegley Rocks. What a treat!
For me there was transport at the end and even the chance of a glass of beer at Penybont’s Inn, but there are many circular routes with car-free options that start right here at Drovers Retreat. Plus, the 2.5 mile link to the award-winning Dolau station allows you to explore walks further afield.
We are happy to advise and have a copy of the trail guide and maps here for you to borrow during your stay.
Start planning!
More on Walking at Drovers Retreat here.
Carolyn Kennard 2024
