Rheidol Valley
The quiet Rheidol Valley or 'Cwm Rheidol' is a rather good choice for a touring day out, featuring typically Welsh scenery, some unexpected attractions such as major hydro-electric power station and a chance for activities such as fishing and cycling.
Cwm Rheidol Hydro Electric Scheme
The impressive dam at Nant-y-Moch reservoir
Covering over 160 km2, this is the largest hydro-electric scheme in England and Wales and an important hub for energy company Statkraft.
As well as the chain of reservoirs to fish in or explore, the visitor centre offers displays and exhibitions explaining the scheme, along with guided tours of the power station and its fish farm.
The reservoirs include the impressive, 600 acre Nant-y-moch reservoir in the shadow of the Pumlumon mountains, a few miles north of Ponterwyd (map) and its smaller downriver counterpart, Dinas Reservoir. Both reservoirs are stocked with varieties of trout and permits for fishing can be bought from the Rheidol Filling Station in Ponterwyd.
The falls at the little Cwm Felin Reservoir near to the visitor centre are floodlit at night until about 11pm BST or 10pm GMT.
Hydro Electric Scheme
- Location:
- 8 miles east via A44 and local road [Map]
- Open:
- Easter and summertime
- Public Transport:
525, 3 miles away- Telephone:
- (01970) 880667
Rheidol Cycle Trail
Starting at the harbour in Aberystwyth, this 17 mile trail leads you through the Rheidol Valley to Devil's Bridge, mainly along quiet back roads and dedicated cycle routes.
This is the area's first proper cycle route, and it is clearly signposted for its entire length. Although unchallenging for most of its distance, there is a very steep climb up from the valley floor to Devil's Bridge, so be prepared - or take the alternative ending to the route which leads to the old Rheidol mines.
The cycle trail is shown on local Ordnance Survey maps, and signposted from the harbour in Aberystwyth.