While most
summer tourists from over the border descend westwards to the Pembrokeshire
coast or north to Snowdonian peaks, those in the know will tell you you're
missing a trick in bypassing the rugged delights of the stunning Brecon
Beacons. In the famed land of mountains and valleys, the Brecon Beacons stand
out for their beauty.
Just outside
the charming Brecon village of Trecastle lies the refreshingly no-frills
Ynysfaen. This quiet site boasts acres of space,
unencumbered by cars in the tents-only field. Exception to the
rule, a cosy two-person shepherd's hut is the only four-wheeled thing around
here and it's travelling nowhere fast. Well...perhaps not the only thing – there are also a trio of exclusive VW-campervan-only pitches. In addition, glampers can make the most of their digital detox in one of the brand new glamping bell tents. While cars are not permitted in the
camping field, guests can load their gear in the colourful wheelbarrows
provided. This low-impact ethos is in keeping with the site's enduring
atmosphere of peace and tranquility. While it's the perfect base camp for
exploring the Beacons and Black Mountains, Ynysfaen offers a relaxing retreat,
soundtracked by tweeting birds and the gentle babbling of the River Usk.
Speaking of
birds, the area has more than a few to keep the twitchers entertained. See red
kites, red starts, buzzards, kingfisher, heron, wild mallard and woodpeckers.
Keep your eyes peeled for foxes, badgers and even the occasional otter,
wriggling from the Usk that weaves past the campsite. Situated in the Brecon Beacons National Park
Dark Skies Reserve, it is also a cracking spot for stargazing. The Usk Reservoir (a mile away) was named the darkest place in the reserve, so you can admire the twinkling night sky, free from
light pollution.