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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Wales
Intro to Wales
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![]() England
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Trans Wales Trail
Wales
Wales
A horseback journey across Wales - from the English border to the Irish sea!
Here is a challenging horseback excursion offering an unrivaled riding experience as you cover the breadth of Wales, from the English border all the way to the Irish sea! The riding is fast and strenuous and riders should be prepared for long days in the saddle. This is the ultimate riding trip for the avid and enthusiastic rider looking to conquer new lands and virtually see all that the country has to offer from one end to the other. Over 6 days of horseback riding through some of the most historic, beautiful and unspoiled country in Britain, using mostly forgotten bridleways, open moorland crossings and several hidden trails over private land. The route passes through 4 mountain ranges – the Black Mountains, Mynydd Eppynt, the Elan Valley and over Plynlimon before we reach the glorious sea and are rewarded with an exhilarating final gallop on the beaches near Aberystwyth! Enjoy being the pilot of a well-trained, responsive and sure footed Welsh Cob, most bred on the same farm they now ride out of as an experienced and exciting trail and endurance horse. Please note this is for experienced riders only - you must be fit with good stamina and love to ride at high speeds!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Talgarth
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Airport:
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London
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Transfer:
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Chepstow bus station and Abergavenny Railway station
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2020
Rates include*:
Accommodations, all meals, 5 riding days
| A | 2020 | 7 day Trip, AP | 7d / 6n | £1400 | $1820 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
No single supplement if willing to share!
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2020
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Transfer from Chepstow bus station in South Wales, per car (for up to 6 pax), one way
- to be paid locally
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£
75
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$100
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2020
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Transfer from Abergavenny Railway station, per car (for up to 6 pax), one way
- to be paid locally
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£
35
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$45
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2020
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Transfer from Heathrow, per car (for up to 6 pax), one way
- to be paid locally
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£
300
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$390
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2020
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Single Supplement (paid in British Pound - only for 3 nights)
- to be paid locally
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£
150
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$195
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2020
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Weekend extension after trip (+ 2 nights: depart Sunday), pp
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£
360
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$470
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2020
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Weekend extension after trip (+ 2 nights: depart Sunday), single
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£
420
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$545
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Pick-up/drop-off can be organized for an extra fee (to be paid locally) from Chepstow bus station, Abergavenny Railway station or London Heathrow.
Tour Dates for 2020
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2020
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05/16
- 05/22
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
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| A |
2020
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06/06
- 06/12
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
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Sold Out
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| A |
2020
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06/13
- 06/19
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7d / 6n
|
7 day Trip, AP
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2020
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07/04
- 07/10
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7d / 6n
|
7 day Trip, AP
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2020
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07/25
- 07/31
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
|
Reserve
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| A |
2020
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08/08
- 08/14
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| A |
2020
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08/22
- 08/28
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| A |
2020
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09/05
- 09/11
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| A |
2020
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09/19
- 09/25
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7d / 6n
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7 day Trip, AP
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4
/12
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
Drinks
Sample Itinerary (subject to changes)
Day 1: Riders arrive after 5pm at the riding center, settle in, meet the horses and get to know one another over dinner.
Day 2: Riders are matched to their horses and get to put them through their paces on a local ride of about 12 miles around the valley, over a variety of terrain including some open mountain riding in the afternoon. We stop for lunch in a local pub, and afterwards head up onto the mountain where the hill-riding really begins, and we earn spectacular view of Llangorse lake and the Brecon Beacons. We had back to the farm for dinner, a visit to the local pub, or perhaps an early night!
Day 3: We set off in the direction of the coast; 8 miles of rolling farming countryside is followed by 12 miles of fast, open moors – without doubt, a horseman's paradise. We stop at two inns along the way for refreshments before arriving at the comfortable 16th century Caer Beris Manor Country Hotel in Builth Wells on the River Wye for the night.
Day 4: Staying west of the river Wye, we stop for lunch at a 13th Century inn, the oldest inn in Powys. The night is spent in a comfortable hotel in Rhayader, where one can normally do some souvenir hunting!
Day 5: Today we cross the 'Lakeland of Wales', a fast ride following the scenic Elan Valley for 15 miles, with a picnic lunch, and a final 5 miles through a pine forest. We stop at the friendly Blue Bell Inn for the night, where we can relax with a drink, hot bath and a good dinner.
Day 6: Marathon day! 26 miles to the sea but first there is a mountain to cross with no trail to follow! Luckily your guide has been riding this route for over 20 years and knows his way! After a refreshing paddle in the waves and a gallop on the firm sand, you and the horses will be glad of the 90 miles lift home, stopping en-route for dinner at the Blue Bell Inn.
Day 7: Bid farewell to your horse and fellow riders. Guests leave after breakfast.
The above sample itinerary is subject to changes at the tour operator's discretion.
A note about skill level: This is a rigorous trail suitable only for fit and experienced adult riders, and includes long periods of strenuous trotting and cantering. On occasions, riders must be prepared to dismount and lead their horses up steep hill paths. Please enquire for further details if you are unsure whether this ride is suitable for you!
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Optional: weekend extension
Includes accommodations for 2 more nights and riding on Friday and Saturday, with departure on Sunday after breakfast.
Meeting:
Talgarth
Airport:
London
Train station:
Abergavenny
Transfer:
Chepstow bus station and Abergavenny Railway station
Pick-up/drop-off can be organized for an extra fee (to be paid locally) from Chepstow bus station, Abergavenny Railway station or London Heathrow.
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Tack:
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Endurance saddles with saddle bags
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Horses:
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Welsh Cobs
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Pace:
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5-7 hours
moderate with canters, some steep trails
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
13
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Weight:
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Max
180
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Riding helmets are mandatory for this ride.
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Riding Experience
This trail is suitable for good intermediate riders and above. You should be confident and competent at all gaits, over uneven ground, on forward-going horses. We cross from the Black Mountains to the Irish sea, over several mountain ranges, covering great distances, mostly off-road, and riders must be fit, have good stamina.
Riding Terrain & Pace
The route passes through four mountain ranges (The Black Mountains, Mynydd Epynt, the Elan Valley and over Plynlimon) before a final gallop on the beach near Aberystwyth. The route uses mostly forgotten bridle-ways, some open moorland crossings and several trails over private land. There is plenty of opportunity for fast canters and gallops, and even the chance to jump logs and ditches - all optional of course! The program includes 5 riding days and we usually cover between 15 and 20 miles a day (5-7 hours).
Horses
There is a herd of about 30 Welsh cobs and crosses, the majority of which have been bred here on the farm. Horses are selected for temperament and character. Size ranges from 14 to 16 hands. We breed and break our own replacement stock, and every year several youngsters join the riding stock. The horses are very reliable, friendly and sure-footed, guaranteed to give you an excellent ride. Compact, intelligent and strong, they are ideally suited to the hills and mountains of the area.
Guests are invited to take part in catching, grooming, and tacking up the horses, and are encouraged to develop a relationship with their horse.
Guides
Paul practically grew up on a horse, was leading rides from an early age. He guides the majority of the rides throughout the summer on his darling, Blondie. His unique knowledge of the local area, routes, ground condition and weather patterns enable him to choose the best way to go each day.
We also have a small team of other guides, all of whom have been trained up personally by Paul, and are briefed thoroughly by him each morning before they set out with their group.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passports Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except: 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Note: EU . more
Talgarth area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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45
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46
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51
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55
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61
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66
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70
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69
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64
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57
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50
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46
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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36
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36
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39
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40
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45
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50
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54
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53
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49
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45
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40
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38
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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7
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8
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10
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13
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16
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19
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21
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21
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18
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14
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10
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8
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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2
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2
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4
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5
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7
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10
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12
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12
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9
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7
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4
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3
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
Wales has a moderate climate, very similar to the rest of the UK, but it can also be slightly unpredictable!
The mountainous nature of our landscape and the shape of our coast mean that the weather can differ quite dramatically within a very short distance. Weather also changes quite quickly here- it could be raining in the morning and gloriously sunny by the afternoon.
Most of our rain tends to fall in the autumn and early winter months (October – January) so be sure to bring a raincoat. Our days in winter are shorter and we tend to experience snow, which provides us with some spectacular scenery.
Although it’s not all rain and clouds in Wales - the summer months of June to August are the hottest here and a great time to take advantage of some of our beautiful outdoor sports and activities. April, May and September also offer some warm days to explore our landscape. Our long summer days also help as it often doesn’t get dark until 10pm/22:00 in midsummer thanks to our northerly latitude.
The temperature in winter months averages around 6°C with summer months climbing up to 24°C. However, conditions in the upland areas can be changeable throughout the entire year.
What should we bring?
Warm comfortable and windproof clothing is vital for mountain riding. Unless you are ‘calf-hardened’ it is wiser to bring long riding boots or half chaps. Riding gloves can be useful if it is cold. Layers to keep warm/ stay cool depending on the weather. Jodphurs, Breeches or tight fitting jogging trousers (tights/long-johns in cold weather) are a must. Jeans are not to be worn whilst riding. We advise everyone to come equipped with a long coat as this will keep you dry and also our saddles too!! Hard hats are essential and must fit properly. Don’t forget casual wear for the evenings and house shoes/slippers for indoors!
Can we borrow hats / boots / jodphurs?
Yes, we have a good selection of equipment for riders to borrow. However, we encourage you to bring your own equipment to guarantee a perfect fit.
What if it rains?
We ride in all weathers! We have long waterproof coats to protect you and our saddles for you to borrow, but if you have your own then do bring them along.
RIDING HELMETS ARE MANDATORY!
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Hidden Trails Travel Documents and TripVoucher (contains important local tour contact info.) |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
| Riding boots (short) + Minichaps |
| Riding helmet (there are some at the riding center for you to borrow. However for best fit it's advisable to bring your own) |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
| Lightweight Rain coat |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjama |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| Swimsuit |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Torch/ Flashlight |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and extra film or batteries |
| Belt pack |
| Address book and pen (for postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun protection lotion and lip balm |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations.
Descriptions
You spend 3 nights at the farmhouse and 3 nights in local Inns. There is free Wi-Fi connection at the farm and at the Inn near Builth Wells but Wi-Fi access is not guaranteed at other accommodations.
Laundry facilities are available at the farm and cost £5 per washed and dried load. There are also laundry facilities available in Builth Wells for a small fee.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1 & 2: Farmhouse
Nights 3, 4 & 5: Inns near Builth Wells, Rhayader and Llangurig
Night 6: Farmhouse
Farmhouse
Built from stone from a quarry just upstream, this farm has probably been a home to people for nearly 400 years. The traditional character of the house has been kept while renovating the guest annex to the highest standard. There are 4 rooms in the guest annex, each with their own en-suite shower room.
There is plenty of hot water, Welsh blankets, fluffy pillows, 100% cotton linen and goose down duvets to make sure you will sleep like a baby. The house is heated with a wood biomass boiler, so in the winter you will be cozy and warm.
A comfortable lounge provides space for guests to relax and socialize in the evening.
Inns near Builth Wells, Rhayader and Llangurig
The lodgings are basic, but comfortable. The rooms usually have a private bathroom but on some occasions, we might have to share a bathroom.
Room Occupancy
There is no single supplement if you are willing to share.
If you prefer a room to yourself, a single room can be requested and if available charged at extra cost per night.
Meals
All meals are included for this trip.
When staying at the farm, both breakfast and dinner are taken in our garden room overlooking the stream at the back of the house. When staying at country inns along the trail, dinners are served in local pubs and restaurants. Lunches are eaten on the trails and is either a picnic or at a pub.
At the farm, food is simple but delicious. We prepare homemade meals using fresh locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible. Look out for our very own Black Mountain lamb, and the rest of our meat is from Bryan George, a nationally acclaimed butcher in Talgarth with an abattoir attached; this meat has never known packaging! Our fruit and vegetables are from Coronation Grocers in Talgarth, delivered each week along with the milk and yoghurts by our neighbor John. When in season, you may find raspberries, blackberries, lettuces, salad leaves, green beans or fresh herbs on your plate, picked that afternoon from our garden.
Alcoholic drinks are not included. However, you are welcome to bring along your own wine or beer to enjoy with your evening meal, and there is a Co-op store in Talgarth, which is open until 10pm and offers a good selection.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with advance notice.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Endurance saddles with saddle bags
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|
Horses:
|
|
Welsh Cobs
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|
Pace:
|
|
5-7 hours
moderate with canters, some steep trails
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
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|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
13
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Weight:
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Max
180
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Riding Experience
This trail is suitable for good intermediate riders and above. You should be confident and competent at all gaits, over uneven ground, on forward-going horses. We cross from the Black Mountains to the Irish sea, over several mountain ranges, covering great distances, mostly off-road, and riders must be fit, have good stamina.
Riding Terrain & Pace
The route passes through four mountain ranges (The Black Mountains, Mynydd Epynt, the Elan Valley and over Plynlimon) before a final gallop on the beach near Aberystwyth. The route uses mostly forgotten bridle-ways, some open moorland crossings and several trails over private land. There is plenty of opportunity for fast canters and gallops, and even the chance to jump logs and ditches - all optional of course! The program includes 5 riding days and we usually cover between 15 and 20 miles a day (5-7 hours).
Horses
There is a herd of about 30 Welsh cobs and crosses, the majority of which have been bred here on the farm. Horses are selected for temperament and character. Size ranges from 14 to 16 hands. We breed and break our own replacement stock, and every year several youngsters join the riding stock. The horses are very reliable, friendly and sure-footed, guaranteed to give you an excellent ride. Compact, intelligent and strong, they are ideally suited to the hills and mountains of the area.
Guests are invited to take part in catching, grooming, and tacking up the horses, and are encouraged to develop a relationship with their horse.
Guides
Paul practically grew up on a horse, was leading rides from an early age. He guides the majority of the rides throughout the summer on his darling, Blondie. His unique knowledge of the local area, routes, ground condition and weather patterns enable him to choose the best way to go each day.
We also have a small team of other guides, all of whom have been trained up personally by Paul, and are briefed thoroughly by him each morning before they set out with their group.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
(a) A passport is not required for travel between Great Britain and Ireland, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. (b) Passengers transiting the UK destined for the Republic of Ireland are advised to hold return tickets to avoid delay and interrogation.
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to six months.
Visa Note
(a) Nationals not requiring visas are advised to be in possession of either a return ticket or, if arriving on a one-way ticket, proof of sufficient funds to accommodate and support themselves for the duration of stay. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
N/A |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Trans Wales Trail
Tour Code:
IT-WATT
7 days /
6 nights
~$1,820.00
Dates :
May-Oct
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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