Cambrian Mountains

The only major road crossing through the Cambrian Mountains is the A44. The mountain range fluctuates between 1500 and 2000 feet in altitude. An area of outstanding natural beauty it has many rivers, streams, waterfalls and impressive valleys which provide picture postcard scenes.

The whole area is a patchwork of scattered villages and farms. Evidence of abandoned settlements and mining activities can be found at various locations. The deserted village at Dylife near the Lyn Clywedgo Reservoir is a good example of its past mining history, or for a look at what life must have been like for the mining community in the mountains take a visit to the Llywernog Silver Lead Mine.

The River Severn and the Wye start here in the Cambrian Mountains and the Elan Valley's reservoirs supply the water for the city of Birmingham. The Cambrian Mountains are a hikers paradise and despite what many may think, this is not a desolate and deserted landscape at all. A visit is highly recommended and the best way to appreciate the area is to travel along its minor roads and lanes along the valleys and lakes.

In 1972 it was proposed that the Cambrian Mountains become Wales fourth national park but opposition from local county councils put paid to this proposal which is suprising given the beauty and stunning array of wooded valleys and gorges.

For photographs of the Cambrian Mountains click here