Rhayader

Four massive dams hold back the waters of the Elan Valley reservoirs, creating a landscape that's part Welsh wilderness, part Victorian engineering marvel. This is proper mid-Wales countryside - all rolling hills, red kites circling overhead, and stone-built market towns that feel wonderfully remote despite being perfectly accessible.

Rhayader sits at the crossroads of it all, a working town that's managed to avoid becoming too touristy. The old castle ruins overlook the Wye, though there's not much left to see beyond some weathered stones. What draws people here is the countryside and the wildlife - particularly at Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre, where you can watch dozens of these magnificent birds swoop down for their daily meal.

Gilfach Nature Reserve offers a different kind of wildlife experience, with ancient oak woodlands and upland meadows that showcase the best of Welsh flora and fauna. The walking here is excellent, whether you fancy a gentle riverside stroll or something more challenging up Cefn Cenarth or the other surrounding peaks.

Getting here from England means a drive through Herefordshire and across the border - Leominster is probably your last major town before heading into the hills. The A470 runs right through Rhayader, making it surprisingly straightforward to reach for such a remote-feeling place.

Staying at one of the local parks makes perfect sense if you want to explore the Elan Valley reservoirs properly. You're within easy striking distance of the dams, the walking trails, and the red kite feeding sessions, while still being close enough to pop into town for supplies or a proper meal.