Another in our series of longer walk, this takes us to an area with big expanses of water, the remotest chapel in Wales and an isolated valley not many get to visit. It is longer and further away than we usually go, but I promise the effort will be worth it. You will experience a solitude almost impossible to find elsewhere. The Elenydd has been called Wales’s ‘Green Desert’ due to being least populated, wildest area of Wales and southern Britain. Flooded by the dam in the 70’s to provide water to South Wales, Llyn Brianne blends sensitively into the confer clad hills. Soar-y-Mynydd chapel is often cited as the most remote in Wales and is simple - symmetrical  boxed pews, lack of adornment and sparse use of colour. The isolated Doethie Valley path, often overlooking the stream, is spectacular and unknown to most due to it’s remoteness.

The first seven miles, to the Chapel, are on well made tracks, mostly through the forest overlooking the reservoir, with some gentle ups and downs. Anyone seeking a shorter walk will need to  make arrangements to return to the start by car from this point, having soaked up the tranquillity of the riverside Chapel. The next few miles are on a rutted track with moderate ups and downs, before entering the Doethie Valley, on an undulating clear path, with a stiff climb near the end. There are no stiles but there are a few gates to climb during the first section of the walk. Muddy in places, especially if after rain.

For those wishing to stay longer and explore the area further, there are two ‘wilderness’ hostels locally, managed by volunteers (at least two of whom are former GOC members) from the Elenydd Trust https://elenydd-hostels.co.uk/index.php/en. There is also accommodation in Llanwrtyd Wells, including the gay owned Drovers Rest, with it’s acclaimed restaurant http://www.food-food-food.co.uk/index.htm.

Future longer walks will take place on 9 July, 13 August, 17 September and 8 October.