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By late afternoon we reach the serenity of Brynafon, a
very pleasant Country House Hotel in Rhayader which claims to be the centre
of Wales.
It is the oldest town in mid Wales, dating back to the 5th century
although Neolithic remains show that people have been here for much longer.
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Our accommodation is in a former workhouse, but it is now
a very comfortable place indeed with great food too.
In spite of our dishevelled appearance, we are made
welcome. |
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The small ornamental pond had a calming
effect after our exertions as we prepared ourselves for a reviving meal.
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The restaurant has the novel feature of an
ornamental pond complete with Koi Carp let into the floor. |
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Another day, another road; this time we make haste along
the A470 to Builth, leaving the Sustrans route to those with more time. |
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The clouds begin to break as we circumnavigate Builth
Wells to take the 'B' road on the east bank of the rushing Wye. It used to
be an old railway line, hence the gradients are kind. |
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In the pretty village of Boughrood we rejoin
the main road for a while. |
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Then its back to Sustrans for some pretty steep hills
awarding great views and quiet lanes.
Read the sign. |
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The Storey Arms marks the top of our last big
hill being the highest part of the A470 crossing the Brecon Beacons. Time
for a pause and a drink. Watering holes were frequent on our journey; we
were drinking many litres per day. Water, of course. I didn't take any more
pics after this, we just concentrated on getting home. 72 miles that day.
A total of 220 miles in 18 hours 22 minutes giving an average
of 11.9 miles per hour overall. My maximum was 39,3 mph. A great trip which
was just completed before the autumn rains set in days later. I can
recommend it, but preferably before you get to age 60! |
