The Mon & Brec Canal
The first section of the Mon & Brec Canal, as it is often called, was first opened in 1797 and the canal was finally linked through to Newport in 1812. It carried coal, limestone and iron ore to the great iron works in the Valleys towns and in its heyday it was a hive of activity. Now where there was noise and industry there is a quiet, beautiful canal for you to enjoy.
Our base at Llangynidr is alongside the B4558, easily accessible from the A40 or via the B4560 from the Heads of the Valleys road (A465).
The views from the canal as you cruise along the sides of the hills are breathtaking. You will soon relax into a lifestyle that cannot be hurried – 3mph is about as fast as you can go. You will have time to admire the scenery and watch the wildlife that doesn't seem to be frightened by the approaching boat.
Operating the locks and lift bridges provides an insight into the old world of the canals and how thousands of tons of materials were conveyed many hundreds of feet up and down this difficult terrain.
The rural towns and villages along the way contain castles, museums, churches and many interesting buildings, all part of the colourful history of the canal. Wonderful walks abound along the length of the canal with many country pubs and restaurants offering good food and drink and excellent hospitality. Our base is ideally placed for a short break travelling to the market town of Brecon, along the way you will navigate the locks, the 375-yard Ashford Tunnel and a small aqueduct.