
The Gilfach Nature Reserve is always a favourite at any time of the year or in any weather.
Slightly further down the River Marteg than St. Harmon and Pant Y Dwr the valley takes on a very different form,
being much steeper and narrower. This has, surely, to be one of the most beautiful and unspoilt places in Wales, and pictures
cannot ever do it justice. You can get to know nature here, or just enjoy yourselves
with a picnic by the river. You can also walk a length of the former Mid Wales railway line and learn a little about its history.
The 400 acre Gilfach farm is owned and managed by the Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, and has been
farmed traditionally for hundreds of years. Otters are regularly seen here and around November time Salmon can be seen
in the river and jumping at the waterfall on their return to their spawning grounds.
The wildlife trust runs a
Nature Discovery Centre situated in the old farmyard buildings, which is generally open
during the summer, where you can learn about the reserve. Ample parking is available at the lower end of the reserve
where it meets the A470 at Marteg Bridge, although if staying at the Mid Wales Bunkhouse, Tipi and Camping,
we would encourage you to leave the car behind and walk or cycle and enjoy the scenery on the way too.