Wanderlust Travel Magazine (UK)
Go Now for getting away from it all
THE DESTINATION: WYE VALLEY Now recognised as the birthplace of British tourism, the Wye Valley is the perfect destination for those seeking history, adventure, nature and scenery. It’s all here on our doorstep…
“The beauties of the Wye Valley were discovered for the first time at the close of the 18th century, when war against France forced people to take holidays at home,” art historian Sir Roy Strong once wrote. “What they found in this part of their native country entranced them for its variety of landscape experience and historic association.”
Fast-forward to 2020, and little (in that sense) has changed. As many of us seek to explore what’s on our doorstep, the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – dipping across both sides of the England/ Wales border – is still just as mesmerising, and a salve for those itching to escape into nature.
The first boat tours were 250 years ago, and even today the Wye Valley is best discovered by canoe. If you have time, you could paddle from the English market town of Ross-on-wye and take in the hilltop Goodrich Castle, as the River Wye winds its way towards Monmouthshire, Wales – leading on to the ruins of Tintern Abbey, rocky Wintour’s Leap and Chepstow Castle, Britain’s oldest surviving post-roman fortification.
Exploring by foot is just as fruitful, particularly in autumn, with countless russet-toned trails for all fitness levels. For the hardcore trekker, the 285km Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail will be a two-week challenge, weaving you through dense forest, woodland and all of the Wye’s highlights.
Following one of five walking routes to Symonds Yat Rock, the most spectacular viewpoint in the
AONB, is well worth the effort – particularly as golden hues sweep across the treetops, framing the river. It’s also a birdwatching haven, even as summer draws to a close. Look out for peregrine falcons swooping over to the Coldwell Rocks, and you may spy an osprey during migration.
After a picturesque stroll, you can settle in a cosy pub to fill up on beer and Gloucestershire’s signature cheeses, or discover art in Rosson-wye, Monmouth or Llandogo’s charming galleries. An entrancing holiday at home, indeed.
Where to stay
Go high in the Hudnalls Hideout (hudnallshideout. co.uk), a luxury treehouse surrounded by secluded woodland and a private meadow bursting with wildflowers; from £250pn, two nights min.
For larger groups, stay in The Chalet in Symonds Yat (thechaletsymondsyat. com), a sprawling, freshly renovated cottage recently made famous by Netflix series and sleeps ten comfortably. It’s perfectly located for vistas and access to the river’s outdoor activities; from £2,950, four nights min.
Both need booking well in advance.