For those of you that have been following us you will have seen the team at Black Rock Adventure, along with some of our community of adventurers undertook a road trip like no other... 'The Big Welsh Roadtrip'. Starting at the most southern point in Wales, Barry Island undertaking a breath-taking 250 miles journey up to the most northern point, Anglesey taking on some of the very best adventure expericnez along the way. We teamed up with the guys at Northern Movement and Contact Coffee and made sure the trip was one to remember, with pitstops along the way for Wild Swimming, Scrambling, Paddleboarding and not to mention meeting some amazing like-minded adventurers, this isn't an trip we will be forgetting quickly. If you didn't manage to join or us or follow along, don't fret, we have put together our favourite must-do adventures for the route.
1. Swim with the Dawn Stalker
Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan
Whether you are a seasoned wild swimmer or thinking about dipping your toes for the first time, without a doubt visiting the community of Dawn Stalkers at Penarth for a swim is a must-do for anyone visiting the area. The gang meet for sunrise every day (yes, every day!) down by the pier on Penarth seafront and they could not be a more welcoming bunch of people. Founded by Grant and Lene, the community has grown and grown and attracts new members almost weekly. The group's high spirits and infectious smiles kept us in the water for longer than we realised and it was so great to hang round post swim whilst warming up to learn a little more about this truly amazing and adventurous bunch. If you are thinking about taking the plunge, don't hesitate; pack your stuff, set your alarm, and get up and into the sea with an amazing group of humans.
2. Waterfall Scramble from Clyngwyn Farm
Pontneddfechan, Neath
Clyngwyn Farm Bunkhouse and Cafe is nestled in the Brecon Beacons, in the heart of waterfall country. From Clyngwyn Farm, a short walk will take you down to the River Hepste, which cascades through a beautiful Welsh woodland valley. This makes for the most picturesque walk or for those of you that are feeling a little more adventurous (we know you are). The river offers plummeting waterfalls, calm pools and gentle rapids for the ultimate swim. The route along the way is steep in places but it's well worth it for the swim spots available and if that isn't enough, visit the farm cafe at the bunkhouse when you return for a warm drink and food.
3. Coed y Brenin Waterfall Adventure
Dolgefeiliau, Ganllwyd
Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, Coed y Brenin is a magical Woodland which offers an array of activities for all adventure lovers, including, wild swimming, hiking, trail running, mountain biking and more. This enchanting location, framed by towering mountains, offers stunning scenery that really took our breath away and was well worth the stop for the road trip. Within Coed y Brenin 2 rivers converge and as they make their way down through a beautiful valley they offer cascading waterfalls and incredible swim spots. For our pit stop here we took the Red route or the Gain Waterfall Walking Trail which snaked through the dense Welsh woodland and took us away from the main footpaths towards the river and we were not disappointed. The river has carved its way through the bedrock over thousands of years and the waterfalls, pools and backdrop that are there today are really something that will leave you feeling connected with the power and beauty of nature. With a range of trails and accessibility along with a cafe, toilets, children's activities and a bike shop on site, this location is certainly worth a visit for all ages ages and abilities.
4. Drive onto Black Rock Sands
Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog, Gwynedd
If you couldn't guess from the name, this location is one that sits very close to our hearts. Two years ago Co-founders Tom and Alex sat on the cliff top at Black Rock Sands dreaming up ways to invest their passion into creating experiences and adventures for others. Fast forward and here we are and we couldn't be more pleased with the adventures and memories that our amazing community haveo undertaken in our Jeeps. Black Rock Sands is not only a stunningly and beautiful beach, rich in history and adventure but is unique as the beach allows vehicles to drive on, pitch up and explore for the day. Whether you are exploring in a car or our Adventure Camper Jeeps, the experience you will get from opening your car door and stepping straight on the sand really is like no other and one that everyone should have on their bucket list.
5. Moel Siabod Sunrise Trail
Capel Curig, Conwy
On the final night of our trip, we found ourselves at Garth Farm, a stunning and historic Eryri farm campsite that takes in stunning views down over LLynnau Mymbyr Lake and the mountain valley beyond. Moel Siabod is not on the hit list for most adventurers visiting Eryr but the routes available to the summit and views at the top are certainly up there with some of the best we have seen and well worth the walk.