Local Area & Attractions
We are very lucky to be situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, with many beautiful tourist attractions. Places we would recommend to visit would include Llangollen, Lake Vyrnwy, Llanrhaedr Waterfall, Powis Castle, Bala Lake, Welshpool - Llanfair Light Railway, and the Dyfi Osprey Project.
With other areas such as Snowdon and the Mid Wales Coastline all within easy reach, The Vine Touring Park is an ideal location to explore Mid Wales and the Shropshire Borders.
Montgomeryshire Canal
Wildlife thrives along the Montgomery Canal. It is one of the most important canals in the country for nature, much of it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the Welsh section is of international importance, designated a Special Area of Conservation for its aquatic plants.
The canal is the best location in the world for floating water plantain. Otters and water voles have also been spotted along its length. Several nature reserves border the canal, filled with wildflowers and insects, including dragonflies and damselflies.
Walking or cycling along the towpath is an excellent way to experience the peace and tranquility of this rural canal. The canal towpath has recently been resurfaced between Newtown and Welshpool and work continues to the border at Llanymynech.
This is also a popular canal for canoeing – paddling quietly through peaceful green surroundings is a great way to spot wildlife.
The canal is home to 126 listed structures including the Llanymynech limeworks which includes the rare restored Hoffman Kiln and Chimney, both features of a forgotten industrial past that included quarries, limekilns and woollen industries.
While the canal was closed to boats for many years, it is now being reborn as a cruiseway through the picturesque Welsh Marches. One restored section connects to the Llangollen Canal, while the other is only accessible by a slipway at Welshpool. Work continues to join the two sections through volunteers and the work of the restoration partnership.
Powis Castle
Medieval castle rising dramatically above the celebrated garden
The world-famous garden, overhung with clipped yews, shelters rare and tender plants. Laid out under the influence of Italian and French styles, it retains its original lead statues and an orangery on the terraces. High on a rock above the terraces, the castle, originally built circa 1200, began life as a medieval fortress.
Remodelled and embellished over more than 400 years, it reflects the changing needs and ambitions of the Herbert family - each generation adding to the magnificent collection of paintings, sculpture, furniture and tapestries.
A superb collection of treasures from India is displayed in the Clive Museum.
Welshpool - Llanfair Light Railway
The Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. Opened in 1903 to link the market town of Welshpool to the rural community of Llanfair Caereinion, this 2 foot 6 inch narrow gauge steam railway now provides a tourist service for all the family and a welcome change from the rush of every day life. Built as a Light Railway to avoid some of the costs of railway construction, the narrow gauge allows for tight curves and steep gradients, enabling the line to follow the contours of the countryside. Most of our trains are steam hauled, either by one of our unique original locomotives or one from abroad. The carriages too are special; those in regular use being from Hungary and Austria with access to the enclosed seating area via an open balcony - a great way to watch the world go by.
Lake Vyrnwy
"The stunning Lake Vyrnwy area is my idea of heaven. Walking cycling, touring, bacon butties & cream teas- it has all this & more! I travel the world, but Lake Vyrnwy is up there, and pretty hard to beat." Sian Lloyd
"Lake Vyrnwy is one of Wales' hidden gems. With stunning views, a wonderful array of walks to suit all abilities and some fantastic wildlife, it's a great place to visit throughout the year." Iolo Williams
We would personally recommend a light meal or an afternoon drink on the terrace at the Bistro at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel which has the most amazing view over the lake and is magnificent or a sunny afternoon / evening.
Dyfi Osprey Project
The Dyfi Osprey Project has been running at Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve near Machynlleth since 2009.
The Dyfi Osprey Project is part of Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust.
Worth a visit during the same day is the RSPB reserve of Ynis Hir approx 3 miles apart.
Please note the Live streaming of the nest usually takes place from March - Mid September.
Llanrhaedr Waterfall
Pistyll Rhaeadr is an enchanting waterfall in the Berwyn Mountains, just inside Wales, west of Oswestry and Shrewsbury.
At 240ft (80m) high it is Britain's tallest single-drop waterfall, captivating all who visit her. Generation after generation take in the spirit and presence of this special place. Many mention how quickly they find peace and reverence within themselves, seldom found in our busy and fragmented world.
It's a great place to explore the Berwyn Mountains and surrounding hills, with many walks to suit a variety of walkers.
Tan-y-Pistyll, little house under the waterfall, is where our tea room and B&B accommodation are located. Here you'll find a welcome cup of tea, a snack or meal with a lovely view of the waterfall from the garden or, when it's colder, a warm logfire to sit by.