The Elan Estate
Situated on the edge of the Cambrian Mountains in Mid Wales the Elan Estate is a little known area of outstanding natural beauty. Extending over 73 square miles it houses no less than six spectacular reservoirs, acres of woodland and mile upon mile of open hillside.
It’s a haven for wildlife and a must for anybody seeking an outdoor leisure break experience away from the crowds in an easily accessible part of Wales.
Elan Valley Lodge is the only activity accommodation on the estate, we offer:
- Guided walking on a combination of low and upland routes to suit walkers of all levels.
- Bird watching tours with a local expert guide.
- Rock climbing and abseiling on our private crag.
- Exclusive access to Caban Coch reservoir for Canadian Canoeing and improvised raft building.
- A woodland orienteering course in a private area of forestry.
- High ropes challenges.
- Mountain biking on a variety of challenging routes.
- Off road running trails and road running on quiet country routes.
A fascinating history:
In June 1892 the Birmingham Corporation Water Act received Royal Assent and James Mansergh was appointed as consulting engineer for the construction of a series of spectacular dams that would supply water to Birmingham.
73 square miles of Welsh hillside was subjected to compulsory purchase, this land now forms the Elan Estate.
Construction of the dams was completed in 1904 and the first water began its journey to the Midlands via a 73 mile aqueduct. This incredible feat of engineering crosses 11 river valleys and uses sophisticated siphons to enable the water to complete this journey at an average of 2mph aided by gravity alone.
In order to protect the water, quality conservation has been a major factor in the management of the estate over the last 100 years. Much of the land is designated as sites of special scientific interest and is covered by a variety of UK and EU conservation orders.
More information is available at http://history.powys.org.uk/history/rhayader/elanmenu
"What a stunning weekend! The accommodation, food, hospitality and walks were all fantastic. We will be back".
Cheshire Striders
