This month, in celebration of Britain's picturesque peaks, we head to Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) to speak with thrill seekers and providers, Black Mountain Adventure, about how action-packed escapes in this bumpy and beauteous region are a must for all that venture here.
What activities do you offer at Black Mountain Adventure?
We offer a wide range of activities such as paddle boarding, open canoeing, gorge adventures, kayaking, raft building, clay shooting, archery, white water rafting, mountain biking, caving, hill walking, navigation courses, orienteering and team-building events. We cater for couples, family groups and corporate events, offering a wide range of activities to a really broad selection of people; no two days are the same! We adapt the activities based on how people want to enjoy the area, the weather and their ability. It’s all about ensuring that they have the best, most memorable experience.
What would you say makes the Brecon Beacons such a special destination for adventure-lovers?
Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) has over 500 square miles of natural beauty, with its majestic hills, hidden valleys and beautiful rivers to explore. The Brecon Beacons National Park is synonymous with providing the best in outdoor adventure activities Wales has to offer. Widely regarded as the go-to place to try your hand at a number of thrilling activities. There is so much to discover, and the ever-changing landscape makes it such a different terrain to experience as you move through the seasons.
Would you encourage those visiting the area to integrate high-octane activities into their break?
Visiting Bannau Brycheiniog is a very personal experience for each individual. Some might just want to enjoy being immersed in such a breathtaking landscape and seek nothing more than enjoying the scenery at their leisure but, for those who are wanting an alternative way to experience their surrounds, then they’re fortunate to be spoilt for choice! From the on-land and water adventures to exploring the subterranean world, this really is a playground for those new to outdoor pursuits as much as those seeking their next adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
Why do you think the recent official name change to the Welsh translation (Bannau Brycheiniog) is important?
The Beacons have always been known by the Welsh people as Bannau Brycheiniog. As more and more emphasis is placed on schools in Wales encouraging children to learn their native language, then it’s a natural progression that more places will be called by their Welsh name.
What is life like for you in the Brecon Beacons?
Being immersed in nature is at the heart of everything I do, and there couldn’t be a better place to do it! The ability to enjoy the natural unspoilt countryside at your own pace is a privilege. I’m glad that I can share my Bannau Brycheiniog with those seeking to experience – even for a weekend – the natural beauty of the area, it affords such an escape from fast-paced city life.
What is your favourite way to spend a day here?
For a bit of history and adrenaline, I’d suggest a castle exploration – there are many to choose from – a leg-stretch up one of the mountains or a paddle down river to really experience all that the area has to offer. A day will afford you a taster of the locality, but you’ll definitely want to return!
Home to three Unique Homestays properties; Celestia, Charity and The Wilds - can you give us three reasons why the Brecon Beacons should be on everyone’s to-visit list?
I love the fact that it’s not a "one size fits all" locality, there is so much that visitors of all abilities can enjoy. Even though it’s a popular tourist destination, you can always find somewhere to enjoy the landscape uninterrupted. I think the tranquillity is what those who haven’t visited before really appreciate. And when the sun goes down, it’s an equally impressive after dark spot for stargazing enthusiasts!
