HIKING AND BIKING - Discover the perfect active break near Newtown, Powys

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Mid-Wales, Newtown, Powys offers the perfect base for an active UK getaway. Surrounded by gentle hills, quiet country lanes and scenic riverside paths, this charming market town sits in the heart of some of the most beautiful walking and cycling landscapes in Wales. Whether you’re planning a long weekend away or a week-long holiday, spring is the ideal times to explore the region on foot or by bike.

Guests staying in the Unique Welsh Stays can participate in tranquil countryside adventures during the day and enjoy comfortable accommodation to return to in the evening, including dog-friendly cottages, ample storage for bikes and hot tubs to relax tired muscles. Here are some of our top tips for the hiking and biking opportunities to inspire your next Welsh adventure.

Walk to the Source of the River Severn in Hafren Forest

Riverside Strolls on the River Severn and the Severn Way

One of the easiest ways to explore the area is by following sections of the long-distance Severn Way, a 224-mile trail that traces the course of the River Severn from its source above Llanidloes in Mid-Wales all the way to the Bristol Channel. Around Newtown, the route offers peaceful riverside walking, open countryside views and charming footpaths linking villages and farmland. Short circular routes branch off from the main trail, making it ideal for walkers of all abilities. A particularly enjoyable option is the Severn Way Circuit, a gentle 3.4-mile walk which you can start from right outside Green Lane Cottage. It offers views across the Severn Valley before meandering into Newtown along the riverside path. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon wander with the dog. See Walk 11 in the link or choose from many more pleasurable walking options: https://newtown.org.uk/browse-all-walks/

Dolforwyn Castle

For a walk that starts and ends at a pub, why not try walk 8. You may need some refreshment after this 9.3 mile, strenuous walk which takes you to the ruins of Dolforwyn Castle. Starting (and ending) at the Waggon and Horses in Lower Canal Road you also have an optional detour into the village of Abermule. It is possible to make it a one-way walk and catch a bus back to Newtown from Abermule if desired. Much of the walk is off road and along minor roads and tracks. https://newtown.org.uk/walk/walk-8-dolforwyn-castle-abermule/

Country trail to Dolforwyn Castle

Fachwen Pools

Another circular walk that can be started close to Unique Welsh Stays is to Fachwen pools. You can do the complete 5.7 mile circuit taking you into Newtown, or a shortened version starting from Bryn Lane and returning via Beehive Lane. Ordinance survey maps are provided in all our holiday properties, or you can download a version of the walk from this link: https://www.visitmidwales.co.uk/things-to-do/circular-walk-3-fachwen-pool-p1739281

Cycling in the Heart of Mid-Wales

The quiet roads around Newtown make it a superb destination for cyclists. From gentle towpaths to long-distance touring routes, there’s something for every level of rider. What better than a gentle cycle along the Montgomeryshire Canal towpath between Newtown and Welshpool, offering a relaxed, mostly level cycling route.

Cycling adventures on Lon Cambria

For serious cyclists, Lon Cambria (National Cycle Route 81) runs close to Newtown and offers a stunning journey across Wales. The full route stretches around 110 miles from the coast at Aberystwyth to Shrewsbury, taking riders through beautiful countryside, market towns and historic landscapes. Many visitors choose to ride shorter sections as part of a day activity: https://www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/lon-cambria-aberystwyth-to-shrewsbury/

Mountain Biking

If mountain biking is more your thing, you’ll be spoiled for choice with many centres in and around Powys, offering a choice of trails from beginner to advanced, such as Caersws Bike Park, Hafren Forest, Llanbrynmair, Dyfi Forest and Coed-y-Brenin. More information can be found at Mountain Bike Wales https://www.mtb.wales/

Mountain Biking in mid-Wales

Dog-Friendly Adventures

One of the best things about walking and cycling in Mid-Wales is how dog-friendly the region is. With miles of public footpaths, open countryside and quiet trails, dogs can enjoy the adventure just as much as their owners. There are a selection of dog-friendly pubs and cafes to enjoy well-earned refreshments along the way. Please remember to keep dogs on leads around livestock and follow local countryside guidelines.

Stay, explore and unwind with Unique Welsh Stays

After a day exploring the hills, trails and cycle routes around Newtown, returning to a comfortable countryside retreat makes the experience even better. The Unique Welsh Stays provide the perfect base for an active break in mid-Wales with choice of five properties sleeping 2 to 14 guests. Guests can enjoy peaceful surroundings, easy access to walking and cycling routes, and the option to bring along their dog in all cottages except Bedw Barn.

Relax after a day's activity in hot tub and Bedw Barn