26th July 2021
Looking for a peaceful yet stunning getaway floating down the waterways? No route could be more perfect than the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, or the Mon and Brec canal for short! But what makes this Welsh route so tranquil? Unlike any other waterways in the UK, the Brecon Beacons canal is not connected to the main canal network – which makes it significantly quieter than other canals with less boats having access to the area.
The canal passes through busy market towns such as Brecon and Abergavenny. So, while the nights are serene and still, your days can be filled with exciting adventures in the towns. For those who want to remain undisturbed, there are still plenty of things to do – as a rural waterway, the canal is home to an abundance of wildlife. You won’t have to go very far to see swans, kingfishers, herons and buzzards.
Those boats floating down the Mon and Brec are not only subjected to some of the quietest canals in Britain but also some of the most beautiful. The canal is almost entirely located in the Brecon Beacons National Park and is only 35 miles long – easily achievable by narrowboat in a week. The Brecon Beacons is renowned for its dramatic landscape with South Wales’s highest mountain, Pen y Fan, being a central point.
If you are an avid walker or mountain biker, the Brecon Beacons has a huge number of stunning walks through its beautiful countryside. Ranging from beginner to expert, these routes are laid out to be enjoyed by the whole family. While you’re out and about, why not join the global treasure hunt for geocaches? There are over 180 around the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal – all you need is the Geochaching app and you’re good to go!
The Brecon Beacons is also known for its stargazing with a lack of light pollution. In 2012, the Brecon Beacons became one of 18 Dark Sky Reserves in the world. With 10 stargazing locations, this accreditation keeps the entire national park dark at night giving you optimum opportunity to see the stars in all their glory. There is nothing more stunning than watching the stars sparkle from the comfort of your canal boat.
Not only is the Mon and Brec Canal home to stunning scenery, but it is also a hotspot for events that bring in people from across the world:
Does a trip down the Brecon Beacons canal sound dreamy? Find more information on our Brecon Beacons canal boat hire and routes in South Wales or get in touch with a member of our friendly team now at ABC Boat Hire.
