2020 has been a very strange year. As a result of the ongoing pandemic we have run very few events. In fact we are just starting to get going only to find that the rules are once again tightening. Fortunately the Welsh government kept their restrictions to groups of 30 outside and the Hotel arranged its dining facilities as well separated groups of 4 or 5 so we could remain safe and within the restrictions. After all you don't get much more socially distant that traveling independently in separate cars, even with the top down.
Llanerchindda Farm is a former farm in the hills above Llandovery. It is operated as a hotel that offers out door activities such as off road biking and 4wd treks. They also offer more relaxed tours and this was what we used. We had 2 organised tours and one day where everyone could choose what they did for themselves.
The farm terrace has an open view of the valley below and the Cynghordy Viaduct on the mid Wales railway. While we were there the railway was not operating owing to a derailment and a large spill of diesel that they were still cleaning up.
On arrival we were treated to tea and cakes with an excellent 3 course meal in the evening.
Day 1
After a hearty breakfast we assembled loosely on the farm terrace for a briefing about the day's tour in which we were strongly reminded that this is a tour and not a rally. After that we went to the car park for a "photoshoot" and then proceeded to follow the route for the day in groups of 1 car (at least to start with). The route followed the A483 through Llanwrtd Wells to Beulah where we picked up the B4358 to Newbridge on Wye. The via the A470 and some minor roads we arrived at the Elan Valley visitor centre for a coffee stop and a look around. This, of course, gave another photo opportunity. From the Elan Valley we continued on mostly minor roads past a number of old mineral workings to Devil's Bridge our designated lunch stop. Some chose to stop and look at the bridges and the waterfalls; others went on choosing other places such as Strata Florida Abbey to stop. The return route took us on minor roads past Llyn Brianne, returning to the farm from the other side. In all an interesting 95 miles but nothing too much of a challenge.
Day 2
Today we had a shorter route with an extended time at the Welsh National Botanical Gardens at Middleton Hall, Llanarthne near Landdarog. This was mostly B roads with the option to take in the A4069 through the Black Mountains on the way home. We arrived at the gardens though the back entrance and we were parked in the main part of the gardens giving other visitors a photo opportunity. The gardens are quite extensive and there was plenty of time to look round. In the event everone chose not to take the optional route choosing instead teas and cakes back at the farm :).
Day 3
Today it was everyone for himself. Chosen activities included a self directed drive, a walk locally to the farm, a visit to a local nature reserve and a visit to a National Trust House so plenty of variety. At the end of the day, once again there were tea and cakes an a very good evening meal.
After breakfast on Friday morning it was time for everyone to depart. A good time had been had and we look forward to another visit in better times.