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Llanthony Priory Walk 3-Day Self-Guided Walking Vacation offered by supplier M16809 (read about supplier) Key Information: Tour Duration: 3 day(s) Group Size: 1 - 20 people Destination(s): Wales   Specialty Categories: Walking Tours   Wildlife Viewing   Season: January - December Airfare Included: No Tour Customizable: Yes Minimum Per Person Price: 225 Pound Sterling (GBP) Maximum Per Person Price: 225 Pound Sterling (GBP)

Discover the tranquil Vale of Ewyas and enjoy magnificent views of the Wye Valley on this 3-day walk through the Black Mountains at the eastern end of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The area is dramatic both in terms of landscape and heritage and was once a wild border region, the scene of violent skirmishes in the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the ruins of Llanthony Priory lie in peaceful isolation. Walkers looking for solitude and wide open spaces will not be disappointed, and the booktown of Hay on Wye provides good pubs and shops at the start and end of the tour. The path is generally well defined but the walk does involve some steep climbs, so a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to navigate is recommended.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Hay on Wye.

Day 2: Hay on Wye to Llanthony - 14 miles (22 km)
The walk leaves Hay on Wye on Offa's Dyke path, a trail which roughly follows the ancient earthwork, which once formed the Welsh-English border. The path climbs steadily, leaving the sheltered fields and woodland behind and emerging onto a wide open expanse of springy turf. A short but stiff climb leads up to Hay Bluff, where you can lean against the trig point – at 677 metres – to regain your breath and enjoy superb views of the Wye Valley and Central Beacons away to the West. Keep an eye open for wild horses, which often roam on the moorland here. A couple of miles along the ridge, look out for a tiny hamlet below you in the valley. This is Capel-y-Ffin, where the tiny, whitewashed St Mary's Chapel, was built in 1762.

Day 3: Llanthony to Craswall - 7 miles (11 km)
You may like to spend some time exploring the priory before you embark today. It's been a holy site since 1118 and has a wonderful sense of tranquility. Wander between the graceful arches before tackling the climb back up onto the ridge! Enjoy wonderful views over Herefordshire and the Malvern Hills as you descend from the high ground to the Olchon Valley in the afternoon.

Day 4: Craswall to Hay on Wye - 9 miles (14 km)
A relatively easy day to finish, with the route initially staying close to the valley floor, and providing superb views of Crib y Garth, the Cat's Back ridge. Craswall and the ruins of another priory lie en route. Descend through farmland and woods to the finish in Hay on Wye.

Tour summary:
- Duration: 3 days hiking
- Distance: 30 miles (48 km)
- Grading: Moderate

Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.

The price is 225 Pound Sterling (GBP) per person based on 2 people sharing a twin/double room. Contact operator for sole traveller/single occupancy rates.

Price Includes:
- 3 nights accommodation in quality B&Bs, Inns and small hotels;
- Daily luggage transfer, so your baggage is waiting for you on arrival;
- Detailed, customised maps, with your daily walk highlighted;
- Written route notes giving directions and background information;
- Transfers to/from the nearest rail or bus station at the start and end of the tour.
- Meals: Cooked breakfast included. Packed lunches and evening meals can be arranged at additional cost.

Options: Add an extra night at any stage of the tour, prices from 40 Pound Sterling (GBP) per person per night.

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Also see tour packages in:
Europe   Wales   Outdoor: Land Rambler   Walking Tours   Wildlife Viewing  

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