Hafren Forest

The Hafren Forest takes its name from the River Severn, the ‘Afon Hafren’ in Welsh, which takes its rise about a mile from the western boundary of the forest, high up on the slopes of Pumlumon, the highest mountain in Mid Wales. The Hafren really is as a habitat for wildlife and for the quiet, relaxing enjoyment of visitors and indeed locals. The landscaping allows for the vigorous growth of newly felled and planted areas, while special open riparian zones along the Severn and its tributaries, partially planted with broad-leaved trees, help to ensure the continued health of the streams and make them an excellent habitat for a host of flora and fauna.

• A number of trails to walk along the Severn and through the towering pine and spruce trees.
• For those who experience difficulty with mobility, the Cascades Trail was designed with the cooperation of the local Disabled Association and provides an easily accessible boardwalk up to the cascades on the Severn that give the walk its name.
• Another cascade forms the focus of the Blaen Hafren Falls trail, a three-mile walk through the heart of the forest, whilst the first real waterfall on the Severn, aptly named Severn Breaks its Neck, is the focus of a walk of the same name.
• The longest and by far the most challenging walk available is that to the Source of the Severn. Climbing up through the forest onto the slopes of Plynlimon, this seven-mile round trip takes in one of the most spectacular panoramic views, and some of the wildest scenery in Mid Wales.
• All four routes are circular and are focused around the picnic area and toilet facilities at Rhyd-y-benwch, just seven miles from Llanidloes.
• Numerous forestry tracks and roads are also excellent terrain for the cyclist.