1. Walking and Hiking in Mid Wales
Mid Wales offers some of the best walking routes in the country. Just a short drive from our cottages, you'll find stunning walks through the Elan Valley and Claerwen Valley, home to the famous dams and reservoirs of Rhayader. The trails are perfect for all skill levels and provide views that are nothing short of spectacular. For those seeking more adventure, the challenging Devil's Staircase is just a short trip away.

This winding road provides some of the best views in the region and is a must-visit for anyone looking to conquer Mid Wales' rugged terrain.

2. Mountain Biking Adventures
Cycling enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with Mid Wales' renowned mountain bike trails. From easy-going paths to more technical routes, there's something for every level. The Brecon Beacons National Park, located within easy reach of The Lake Cottages, offers a variety of routes through stunning landscapes. One of the highlights is the Four Falls Trail, which takes you past four beautiful waterfalls.

3. Scenic Drives in Mid Wales and Historic Sites
For those who prefer to explore by car, Mid Wales offers an abundance of scenic drives that take you through quaint villages and past historic landmarks. Drive to the nearby market town of Builth Wells, where you can visit the Brecon Beacons National Park, or head towards the picturesque town of Llandrindod Wells for its beautiful Victorian architecture.

4. Brecon
A visit to Brecon is highly recommended, where you can tour the historic Brecon Cathedral or catch a performance at the Brecon Theatre. If you're a history buff, take a trip to the Gilfach Nature Reserve, a fascinating site that offers not only wildlife but also ancient remains from past settlements.

5. Horse Riding
Mid Wales offers some fantastic opportunities for horse riding, with trails suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Llangorse Multi Activity Centre offers pony trekking for families and scenic rides across the Brecon Beacons, while other local stables provide treks through the beautiful Welsh countryside. Horse riding through the Elan Valley is another great option to take a look at.

6. Rock Climbing and Caving
The Brecon Beacons and surrounding areas are home to some of the best rock climbing spots in Wales. Llangattock Escarpment and Morlais Quarry are popular destinations for climbers, offering routes for all skill levels. For caving enthusiasts, the National Showcaves Centre for Wales (Dan-yr-Ogof) is a must-see, with its incredible cave systems to explore, both on guided tours and independently.

7. Water Sports
The rivers and lakes of Mid Wales are ideal for a wide range of water sports. Llangorse Lake offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and even sailing. The River Wye is another hotspot for canoeing and kayaking, with various routes catering to different skill levels. Some companies offer guided canoeing trips, where you can explore the waterways while spotting wildlife and enjoying the scenery. The Lakeside Boathouse at Llandrindod Wells offers Dragon Boats along with the opportunity to hire a Canoe, Kayak, Raft or even a SUP. All of these are available for hire daily, weather permitting. Black Mountain Adventure, situated in the Black Mountains & Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales, is a family-run business specialising in providing high-quality outdoor adventure activities to a wide range of groups and individuals. Lastly, you can embark on your next water adventure with diverse River Wye trips at Wye Valley Canoes.

8. Fishing
Mid Wales is a fantastic destination for anglers. The River Wye, River Usk, and Llyn Brianne Reservoir are known for their excellent fishing spots, offering trout, salmon, and coarse fishing. Whether you prefer fly-fishing or traditional rod fishing, there are opportunities for all skill levels. And, of course, there is some relaxing fishing to be had here at the Lake Cottages Cwm Chwefru, too!  

9. Birdwatching and Wildlife Watching
Birdwatchers will be in paradise during their stay at Cwm Chwefru. The nearby Elan Valley is home to a wide range of species, including the Red Kite, which can often be seen soaring above our cottages. If you're lucky, you might also spot ravens, buzzards, and a variety of songbirds.

For an even more immersive birdwatching experience, head to RSPB Lake Vyrnwy or the Gigrin Farm Kite Feeding Centre, where you can witness hundreds of Kites swoop down for their daily feed. It's one of the most spectacular birdwatching experiences in the UK.

10. Off-Road Driving and 4x4 Adventures
For adrenaline junkies, Mid Wales offers a variety of off-road driving experiences. You can test your skills on rugged terrain with 4x4 driving adventures through the Brecon Beacons or the Cambrian Mountains. There are specialist companies that provide guided experiences, whether you're new to off-roading or an experienced driver.

11. Paragliding and Hang Gliding
If you're looking to experience the stunning landscapes of Mid Wales from the air, why not try paragliding or hang gliding? The hills around Llanidloes and the Cambrian Mountains offer prime locations for both sports, with specialist schools providing lessons and tandem flights for beginners. 

12. Zip Lining
For a thrilling experience, head to Llangorse Multi Activity Centre, which features a high ropes course and an exhilarating zip line. It's a great option for those looking for an adrenaline-filled day out, especially for families and groups.

13. Golf
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at some of the region's picturesque courses. Builth Wells Golf Club and Cradoc Golf Club offer beautiful scenery and well-maintained courses, making for a relaxing yet challenging game in the heart of the Welsh countryside.

14. Geocaching
For families and those who love exploration, geocaching offers a modern treasure hunt across the stunning landscapes of Mid Wales. There are numerous geocaching trails throughout the region, from easy finds around scenic locations to more challenging routes across remote areas.

15. Orienteering
Mid Wales' diverse terrain makes it a fantastic destination for orienteering. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned expert, the forests and open landscapes provide exciting challenges for map and compass navigation. The Elan Valley and Brecon Beacons are popular spots for this adventurous sport.

16. The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society
Lastly, always check out the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society website as they have so much to do and are famed for their festivals, shows, and fairs.