Elan Valley, Protected valley and Dark Sky Park in Powys, Wales
The Elan Valley stretches across 70 square miles of Welsh landscape, featuring interconnected reservoirs, dams, and natural formations in the Cambrian Mountains.
The construction of dams in Elan Valley began in 1897 with Craig Goch Dam, marking the start of a water supply system for Birmingham.
The valley demonstrates Welsh engineering achievements through its network of dams, which transformed the regional landscape while preserving natural resources.
Visitors can access the valley through the B4518 from Rhayader, with a visitor center providing parking, information services, and food facilities.
The valley contains four dams on River Elan and two on River Claerwen, including the unfinished Dol y Mynach Dam from the original expansion plan.
Location: Powys
GPS coordinates: 52.26222,-3.58861
Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:21
Claerwen Reservoir
6.9 km
Craig Goch Dam
5.3 km
Rhayader Castle
6.6 km
Gorllwyn
4.8 km
Penygarreg Dam & Valve Tower, Elan Valley
3.6 km
St Clement's Church
6.8 km
Esgair Perfedd
6.2 km
St Bride's Church, Cwmdauddwr
6.4 km
Carn y Geifr
6.4 km
Moelfryn Mawr
3.8 km
Craig Goch Reservoir
5.3 km
Tabernacle United Reformed Church
6.6 km
Garreg-ddu Reservoir
920 m
Clock Tower, East Street
6.8 km
Caban Coch Dam
978 m
Old Police Station and Magistrates Court, Bridge Street
6.7 km
Claerwen Dam
4.7 km
No 11 Elan Village
2.2 km
Rhayader Library
6.7 km
Carreg Ddu Viaduct And Submerged Dam
643 m
Bethel English Baptist Church
6.9 km
Cwmdeuddwr Arms, West Street (N Side)
6.7 km
Penrally House
6.8 km
Foel Valve Tower, Elan Valley
649 m
Bethany Chapel
6.7 km
Shelter and Fountain, Elan Village
1.9 km
No 9 Elan Village
2.2 km
Caban-côch Reservoir
349 mReviews
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