THE BEACONS WAY

Glacial valleys, waterfalls and ancient woodland are just some of the features that create the famously dramatic landscapes of Wales, and some of the wonders you will encounter when walking in the Brecon Beacons. On the 100-mile Beacons Way, you'll also find prehistoric earthworks, medieval priories and stout little churches built from the very fabric of the hills. UK wilderness walks don't come much better than this, yet this Beacons walk is a recent phenomenon - inaugurated in Spring 2005. As such, it doesn't attract the crowds that a more established long-distance footpath might. And for many, it's the unspoilt beauty and solitude that this affords which makes the Beacons Way possibly the best walk in Wales.

The route takes the walker from one edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park to the other, traversing the park East to West. Split into eight stages, the walk begins near Abergavenny at Ysgyryd Fawr, known as the Holy Mountain, then meanders through the park to finish in Bethlehem, near Llandeilo. Much of the journey is up high, on the open hill. The unmistakeable peak of Pen-y-Fan is scaled, and this is also a chance to discover the beauty of the neighbouring Black Mountains. Often away from settlement, the Beacons Way is thus a really dog-friendly walking holiday. The path does, however, allow for camping-free comfort, as it dips down to the towns and villages of Mid-Wales each night. Three counties are traversed - Monmouthshire, Powys and Carmarthenshire - and the variation in their landscape and character is fascinating to see over the course of the walk. Those unfamiliar with Wales will be surprised at the diversity found on just one walk through a Welsh National Park, where red sandstone gives way to granite, vineyards mix with sheep farming and unassuming inns reveal internationally-renowned restaurants.

For the red kites, buzzards and skylarks overhead, the mountainous landscape is no barrier to movement. But for those on foot, there is steep terrain to be negotiated, and in places the walk requires navigation over open ground. For walkers used to wielding a compass and reading a map, this will be an appeal in itself and makes the route an ideal choice for a self-guided walking holiday. Those who are reasonably fit, but prefer not to rely on their navigational skills will find an escorted tour a better option.

Drover Holidays has created a perfect Beacons Way holiday to suit both preferences: Our self-guided package is for independent walkers, and includes:

• Pick-up at Abergavenny railway station at the start of the holiday.
• 8 nights accommodation in quality B&Bs and guesthouses.
• Door-to-door luggage transfer - your bags are transferred to the next overnight stop, so all you need to carry is a small day-sack.
• Emergency vehicle back-up.
• Custom maps, highlighting your walk day-by-day and marking facilities.
• Comprehensive route guide including directions and plenty of background information.
• First aid kit.

Those looking for the companionship of a group and the back-up of a guide may prefer the guided Beacons Way walkng holiday. This package includes all of the above, and you will be accompanied by a qualified Mountain Leader at all times on the trail. The maximum group size is eight walkers.

There are no set departure dates for the self-guided holiday - just choose dates to suit your party. Tour dates for the guided Beacons Way package for 2008 are:

• 13-21 June and 14-22 September:

  So, if you are tempted to walk the Beacons Way, but don't want to compromise on comfort, get in touch for further information or to make a booking. Or you can browse other Welsh walking and cycling tour itineraries here. Don't forget all our tours include a hassle-free baggage transfer service.

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