10 of the best places to stay in the Brecon Beacons

Boasting two National Trails and a national park, the Brecon Beacons is home to some of the most enchanting walking trails in the country as well as ample other means by which to explore.

Now that Covid restrictions have eased and people in both England and Wales are allowed to have a holiday in Wales (single households/support bubbles and self-contained accommodation only), we thought we'd take a look at one of Wales' most breathtaking destinations and the places to stay in the Brecon Beacons this summer.

Its charming market towns make lively pitstops for walkers (check out the best walks) and explorers alike to soak up local culture, traditional Welsh products and refuel with a hearty meal and hot drink. But don't be fooled into thinking that this part of the world is solely reserved for ramblers.

There is a programme of cultural events including the world-renowned Hay Festival, where Hay on Wye is flooded with artists, writers and all manner of world-leading experts, plus the Green Man, HowTheLightGetsIn and Brecon Jazz Festivals, which draws visitors from all over the world.

Before we take you through our list of the best places to stay in the Brecon Beacons, we've put together a handy guide of everything you need to know about the Brecon Beacons National Park if you're planning to visit in 2021.

Whether you're after some time alone in nature or plan on bringing the entire clan along for the ride, there is something for everyone in this magical part of the world.

Why visit the Brecon Beacons?

With mountains and moorland, castles, picturesque waterfalls and vibrant communities, the Brecon Beacons National Park has many modern draws to offer alongside its long history.

Nature-lovers will be wowed by the remarkable sights here, while those who adore animals will enjoy the Welsh mountain ponies that live, breed and run wild across the rugged and remote uplands. Be sure to look up as there's a thriving population of red kites and the heathlands are awash with red grouse.

Plus, you'll find Britain's largest community of horseshoe bats flapping around in the Usk Vallery, while flowers and trees unique to this region can be explored in the enchanting woodlands.

What is there to do in the Brecon Beacons?

Though the Brecon Beacons offer some of Britain's best walking trails, there is plenty to entertain everyone who visits.

Architecture-lovers and history buffs will be pleased to hear that wherever you’re based in the Brecon Beacons National Park you're never too far away from an atmospheric castle or a mansion offering a window into the area’s turbulent past.

The Brecon Beacons National Park also has an array range of options for water sports, from the tranquillity of canals and reservoirs to extreme kayaking over jaw-dropping waterfalls. The opportunities to sail, windsurf, kayak, canoe and paddle board are endless here, and the scenery along the way is second to none.

There is a rich culture of traditional and contemporary craftsmanship here and many of the independent galleries and craft shops focus on the work of nearby painters, sculptors, wood turners, glass blowers, soap makers and jewellers.

The more adventurous staycationers might also want to try their hand at caving, as the Brecon Beacons is one of the most exciting and varied caving areas in Britain, with four of the five longest limestone cave systems in Britain. Though we must warn you, it's not for the faint-hearted.

Are the Brecon Beacons good for kids?

The Brecon Beacons have plenty to keep children entertained, with a number of attractions and activities. From spectacular show caves and dinosaurs to a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway, horse riding and archery, to going underground to experience a real coal mine, there is an activity or excursion to suit every child and family here.

Where are the best places to stay in the Brecon Beacons?

Options for places to stay in the Brecon Beacons are as vast and varied as its landscape, from quirky B&Bs to sumptuous hotels and self-catering properties built out of sustainably-sourced materials. The market towns here are well-versed in friendly hospitality and extend warmth and wisdom to all who visit.

Included in our list of the best places to stay in the Brecon Beacons is The Swan at Hay - the independent hotel of choice for many of the authors, actors, comedians and famous faces that flock here during the Hay Festival - and the Miners log cabin, which makes for a charming off-grid getaway for two.

Covid-19: Stays in self-contained accommodation are now permitted in Wales for single households/support bubbles. Hotels are expected to fully open in May. Please check the latest advice before travelling.

Check the safety advice on visiting the Brecon Beacons National Park, including weather conditions and general mountain safety, before you go.

Boasting mountain views, Caboodles Cottage offers accommodation just 200 yard from Crickhowell Castle, with a terrace, patio and two quaint bedrooms.

The cottage for four places you in prime position to enjoy some of the local hikes, including one around Tretower Castle, and the owners also offer a bicycle rental service.

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You will find Black Cat Bach hidden in the hills of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The floor-to-ceiling glass front of the cottage allows stunning views across to the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain to the front of the holiday rental and Blorenge Mountain to the side.

It was designed to bring the outside in so you feel immersed in the natural landscape while enjoying the comforts of a modern home, with the added luxury of an infra-red sauna. Whether you are cosying up in the comfy sitting room or enjoying the view from the spacious patio, you'll feel calm and relaxed here.

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Featuring mountain views, Miners log cabin makes for a charming off-grid getaway for two. Make the most of the outdoors here and ensure that mod cons don't get in the way of appreciating the great beauty of the area. You can soak up the tranquility here any time of day.

Sit out on the porch, wrapped up in blankets with a gin in hand and enjoy the stillness on offer.

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Your day at Nant Ddu Lodge, in the Brecon Beacons National Park, begins with a cooked Welsh breakfast (included in the price) and will likely end with an intimate bistro dinner and a night cap beside the open fire in the bar.

In between this, the day is yours, whether you want to explore the undulating landscape around the hotel or make use of the leisure facilities at the hotel, which include a spa, swimming pool and gym.

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At the top of our list of best places to stay in the Brecon Beacons is the Gliffaes Country House Hotel in Crickhowell.

Perched above the River Usk, this remote, family-run country house offers a sumptuous starting point for many walking routes and roaring log fires on your return.

A sunny terrace invites languishing afternoons in the summer, while the locally sourced menu at the restaurant is enticing all year round.

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Anyone who knows the Brecon Beacons well will know The Swan At Hay, the most well-known hotel in the little 'Town of Books' and the accommodation of choice for many of the authors, actors, comedians and famous faces that flock here during the world-renowned Hay Festival.

The Swan enjoys prime position in the middle of the independent boutiques and cafes here which, during the world-renowned literary festival, are laced with coloured bunting.

Positioned between the Brecon Beacons and the Black Mountains, the independent hotel boats 19 individually designed bedrooms and a restaurant serving classic British cuisine. In the summer months, a BBQ can be enjoyed on the lawns outside, as well as a Pimms cart.

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With views of the river on one side and the mountains from the other, the Brecon Castle Hotel is the perfect blend of atmospheric location and authentic hospitality.

The oldest hotel in Wales, this charming country house is full of character, with traditional rooms four-poster beds and antique wooden furniture.

In the evening join the lively atmosphere at the restaurant and pub here, and tuck into homemade comfort food, local ales and ciders.

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One of the most highly-rated places to stay in the Brecon Beacons, the Manor Hotel lords over the Usk Valley from its lofty position on the side of the Black Mountains.

Inside, it's anything but intimidating: expect a warm welcome, hearty food and bright, spacious bedrooms that mirror the green hues outside with natural pastels inside and striking wooden furniture.

Guests can also work up a sweat at the fully equipped gym, take some time out at the indoor pool, or tuck into fresh food sourced from the hotel's own farm.

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Occupying a prime position in the landscape here since the 16th century, the Old Rectory Country Hotel has managed to retain its traditional wooden beams and other authentic features while bowing to the modern comforts of the 21st century.

Rooms look out over the gardens and the Black Mountains beyond, and the National Trust Sugarloaf and Usk Valley are just a short drive away.

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Ty Croeso Boutique B&B is a former Victorian infirmary situated high on the hillside above the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The breakfast that awaits you each morning couldn't be further from hospital fare, with a range of homemade breads, jams and marmalade as well as cooked options.

Once fed and watered, there are plenty of activities to immerse yourself in on your doorstep, from walking, horse riding and fishing to exploring caves. Are culture and history more your bag? The must-visit spots of Cardiff, Newport and Hay on Wye are all within 45 minutes' drive away.

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