The Groe

The Groe is a modest nature reserve just outside Rhayader that punches above its weight if you know what to look for. It's essentially a riverside walk through woodland with moorland edges - nothing dramatic, but genuinely peaceful in a way that feels increasingly rare. The path meanders alongside the water, and on a clear day you get decent views across the surrounding hills.

This is walker territory, full stop. If your idea of a nature reserve involves car parks and visitor centres, you'll be disappointed. What you get instead is the real thing - birdsong, space to breathe, and a proper sense of being somewhere unspoilt. Families with capable walkers (say, aged eight upwards) will manage it fine. Younger kids might find it a bit samey after twenty minutes, unless they're the type who enjoy spotting insects and splashing in streams.

Allow ninety minutes if you're taking your time. There's no entrance fee that I'm aware of, though facilities are minimal - bring water and stick to the marked paths. The reserve works brilliantly as a morning outing if you're based at Wyeside Caravan Park or Elan Oaks, both within spitting distance. Early morning is genuinely worth the effort - you'll have it to yourself and the wildlife is more active.

It won't be the highlight of your holiday. But if you're in Rhayader for the lakes and the hiking, this fills a gap nicely. Honest, quiet, Welsh.