The Brecon Beacons and surrounding area is a beautiful and unspoilt part of Wales.  The area is able to accommodate the more active and is equally ideal for those wishing to enjoy the tranquillity and stunning scenery.

The Brecon Beacons National Park span over 500 square miles of magnificent scenery incorporating the striking Black Mountains. The highest peak being Pen Y Fan at 2907 ft.

The scenery incorporates various landscapes including mountains towering above attractive valleys with gentle streams, dramatic waterfalls and fast moving rivers, open and untamed common land above wooded hillsides.

A variety of wildlife can be found, Otters are noted to be around the area and several rare birds can be seen locally including Red Kites.

Walking is one of the best ways to appreciate the scenery but for the less active there are some stunning drives taking in the scenery. The quiet country roads take you high across the hills or through the valleys to experience the diverse landscape.  Visiting the attractive villages and towns en-route provide excellent opportunities to visit local markets and stop for lunch at one of the many pubs, cafes or restaurants.  (details and suggestions available in the cottage).

The location is perfect for exploring the area north of Brecon towards mid Wales where the scenery is wild and breathtaking, heading towards the Elan Valley enables excellent views of the wilderness and the reservoirs that supply water to the area of Birmingham.

The market town of Brecon boasts many facilities with several museums, cathedral and remains of a castle.  It is able to offer a good choice for eating out, there are also some excellent pubs and restaurants around the area offering very good quality food using local produce.  There are two excellent golf courses nearby, leisure centre, cinema, supermarkets and a tourist information office.  Brecon hosts the annual world renowned jazz festival in August with performers from around the world.

Hay on Wye is known as the town of books where the famous literary festival is held, with various events arranged attracting many renowned writers.  There is a varied and interesting collection of shops including of course the many book shops but also a variety of craft shops.

The pretty town of Crickhowell situated by the River Usk has a good choice of pubs and cafes and has several attractive shops.

Activities around the area include riding/pony trekking, mountain bike hire, two very good golf courses one located just a couple of miles from Salmon Leap Cottage.

Fishing is available in the area, bird watching including feeding stations for red kites.

A purpose built rope/climbing centre, canoeing and water sports are available nearby.     

The famous Dan-y-Ogof caves and the Big Pit can be found South of the National Park and are in easy reach.