Elan Valley
Cwm Elan
A chain of upland reservoirs created by Victorian-era dams, known as the 'Lake District of Wales' and also an International Dark Sky Park.
The Elan Valley lies west of Rhayader in Powys. In the 1890s, a series of stone dams and reservoirs was built to supply water to Birmingham. After rain, the dams overflow in white cascades, a magnificent sight. Along the valley road you can visit the Caban Coch, Pen-y-garreg and Garreg Ddu dams in turn. The visitor centre has exhibits and a café, and the valley is good for walking, cycling and watching red kites. The valley is an International Dark Sky Park, which makes it a great place for stargazing. It is about 60 km from Aberystwyth by road. The mountain route over the moorland past Devil's Bridge has superb scenery, but you need a car.
Opening hours
Open all day; visitor center approx. 10:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Hafod Estate
- Strata Florida Abbey
- Devil's Bridge Falls
- Silver Mountain Experience (Llywernog Mine)
- Bwlch Nant yr Arian
- Centre for Alternative Technology
- St Padarn's Church, Llanbadarn Fawr
- Aberystwyth Arts Centre