Ynyshir Hall, Eglwysfach, Machynlleth, Powys, Wales SY20 8TA
Tel: 01654 781209
Leisure activities at Ynyshir Hall
This is fine walking country, ideal for a light stroll or an energetic climb. There are numerous walks in all directions around the hotel, from the flat sounds of the estuary to the aptly named 'Artists Valley' (Cwm Einion), the inspiration for Robert Plant’s (Led Zeppelin) Stairway to Heaven. Take the narrow country lane from Furnace up into the hills and enjoy the scenic wooded Artists Valley called.
The hotel is fortunate enough to share its Dyfi estuary location with one of Britain's finest bird reserves, the RSPB Ynys-hir Nature Reserve. The walk from the house around the reserve is a magical ramble. The golden sands of Borth Beach at the mouth of the estuary are only a short walk beyond the reserve.
The location of Ynyshir Hall makes it an ideal base to explore the rugged Welsh mountains in the north and the moorlands and coastal paths to the south.
Most of Wales is within easy drive from this centre. Machynlleth, the ancient capital of Wales and only 7 miles from Ynyshir Hall, is a leading centre for light industry and environmental technology as well as a popular centre for family holidays and "green" tourism. The Ynyshir Nature Reserve is also just a stone's throw from the hotel.
Aberdovey and Barmouth are two of the most picturesque resorts on the Welsh coast, is surrounded by the magnificent splendour of the Snowdonia National Park. The unspoilt beauty of the area has few equals in the UK. Aberystwyth, also 7 miles away, was once the UK’s most fashionable seaside resort in the days of Queen Victoria and is Mid Wales' main seaside resort. It’s also an established university town and an important administrative centre at the heart of Cardigan Bay.
The local iron smelting foundry in the quaint nearby village of Furnace dates back to the very early industrial revolution and was originally used for smelting silver and lead. Later imported iron ore was imported for smelting via the port at Derwenlas. The bellows that pumped air into the charcoal-fired blast furnace were powered by the large water wheel which was driven by the River Einion plunging as a waterfall. The furnace was used to mint silver coins in Aberystwyth.
In the hills, the old drovers roads are still there, heading to Hereford or London. You can still see the ruts made by the cart wheels; this is amazing walking country. Joan Reen, General Manager and a keen walker, has a selection of walks that she recommends. She has been known to force guests out of the hotel for a walk to the estuary bird sanctuary!
Sue Wilson, a qualified Mountain Leader, is also available for those who fancy a guided walk up Cader Idris.
Leisure activities at Ynyshir Hall
