Diffwys Outdoor Centre | Hostel in Cambrian Mountains, Ceredigion, Wales

Activities

Local Beaches

A large variety of stunning beaches are located within easy reach of Diffwys Outdoor Centre. Aside from being excellent locations for coastal path walks and a variety of water sport activities, many of these beaches are also home to large populations of dolphins, porpoises and seals. Stretching along the length of Cardigan Bay, we recommend paying a visit to:

Llanrhystud Beach (17 miles)
Aberaeron (20 miles)
New Quay (27 miles)
Borth Beach (27 miles)
Ynyslas (29 miles)
Llangrannog Beach (35 miles)
Penbryn Beach (36 miles)
Tresaith (37 miles)
Aberporth (39 miles)
Mwnt Beach (44 miles)

Places of Interest

Llyn Berwyn (1 mile) - this beautiful 40 acre lake is located a stones throw away from the Outdoor Centre. Stocking wild brown trout, the lake is a popular venue for fly fishing and wild swimming.
Cors Caron Nature Reserve (5 miles) - The nature reserve covers an area of 2,000 acres and is made up of 3 raised bogs. This wild wetland landscape offers some of the finest examples of wildlife habitats and geological features. Cors Caron can be explored via a series of walking trails: the fully accessible circular boardwalk runs for 3km and the Old Railway Walk runs for 7km.
Llyn Brianne Reservoir (8 miles) - This spectacular reservoir not only offers incredible views but is also a great area for a variety of activities. Bird watching, fishing, mountain biking and walking are all popular activities around this area. Llyn Brianne is also a brilliant location for stargazing and was officially awarded Dark Sky Discovery Status in 2019.
Strata Florida (10 miles)- Strata Florida stands as a linchpin of Welsh culture. As the final resting place for generations of medieval Welsh princes, Strata Florida has been referred to as ‘the Westminster Abbey of Wales’.
Teifi Pools (14 miles) - The Teifi Pools are a series of beautiful lakes and reservoirs sitting in a remote and rugged moorland. This area makes for a brilliant hike for anyone willing to explore the surrounding via a loop path or off-trail walking. The lakes are also a popular fishing destination.
The Hafod Estate (16 miles) - Sitting on 200 hectares of the Ystwyth Valley and surrounding hills, the historical Hafod Estate offers a series of brilliant circuit walks that meander through forests and beautiful waterfalls.
Aberystwyth (21 miles) - this bustling coastal town is home to the National Library of Wales and the Aberystwyth Arts Centre. With plenty of shops and restaurants, Aberystywth is definitely worth a visit if you’re wanting a taste of a more urban environment.
Elan Valley (34 miles) - The stunning Elan Valley is made up of a series of reservoirs sitting in the surroundings of the rugged Cambrian Mountains. There is plenty to do in this popular tourist attraction and would make for an excellent day trip for the whole family.

Walking

Sitting in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains and close to the famous Cambrian Way, Diffwys Outdoor Centre is perfectly placed for anyone looking to explore their surroundings by foot. There are a range of excellent walking routes suited to all levels of ability right on our doorstep. A network of public footpaths and bridleways run nearby, as well as many higher ground areas offering open access to walking. With a purpose built boot room and drying room, the Centre is perfectly organised to welcome walkers and hikers all year round.

Cycling

The Cambrian Mountains have long been a hotspot for adventurous cyclists. Located near the very start of the famous Abergwesyn Pass, and minutes away from the challenging Devil’s Staircase, Diffwys Outdoor Centre is perfectly placed as a base for cycling adventures. The area boasts routes for any type of cycling enthusiast, with quiet mountain roads, bridleways and forestry tracks stretching for miles. The Outdoor Centre offers secure cycle storage. If required, cycle hire is available in Tregaron - Ieuenctid Cambria Youth Ltd SY25 6NF.

Wild Swimming

Plenty of areas in the close vicinity of the Outdoor Centre are perfect locations for wild swimming enthusiasts. Llyn (redacted by order of NRW), which is located just a short walk away from the Centre, offers peaceful surroundings for a refreshing dip. The Wash Pool in the Irfon Valley (12 miles) is a beautiful wide, open pool at the end of a short gorge. Similarly, the Wolf’s Leap (8 miles), located on the route to Abergwesyn, offers a series of deep pools and an open area perfect for picnics. We recommend visiting www.wildswimming.co.uk if you are looking for any further information.

Cambrian Mountains Dark Skies

The Cambrian Mountains in Wales is home to some of the darkest skies in Europe. Visit the Cambrian Mountains to discover the constellations and legacy of galaxies, far and near, and enjoy the Milky Way in all its splendor. Many species are busier at dusk and overnight. The landscape that is so familiar to people during the daytime offers a fresh and exciting look as the sun sets.