Carmarthenshire Council is inviting people to discover the beauty and history of the Tywi Valley from next month with the launch of the Tywi Valley Path Festival of Walks. The two-week programme of guided walks begins on September 16 and is designed to showcase the route's landscapes, heritage and wildlife while promoting the path as a recreational and tourism asset for Carmarthenshire.
A decade in the making
The Tywi Valley Path opened fully earlier this year after being in development for a decade. It connects Abergwili on the edge of Carmarthen with the town of Llandeilo, passing through miles of countryside and offering views of landmarks including Paxton Tower and Dryslwyn Castle. The £18m path officially opened in May.
The festival is supported by Walters Group, the contractor that installed the landmark bridges across the Tywi and Cothi rivers. The programme is designed for walkers of all abilities and interests, with walks led by expert guides and local organisations.
Programme highlights
The festival includes wildlife experiences, creative walking workshops, heritage tours and Nordic walking sessions. The walks on offer are:
- September 16 - West Wales Wild Watch Session (Nantgaredig)
- September 17 - Weave and Walk with Quiet Walks (Llandeilo)
- September 20 - Castles and Gardens Walk with Karsten Minter
- September 21 and 27 - Nordic Walking with Nordic Cymru
- September 26 - A Tale of Two Rivers
- October 4 - Guided Walk of Golden Grove Parkland
Councillor Hazel Evans, Carmarthenshire Council's cabinet member for regeneration, leisure, culture and tourism, said: "The Tywi Valley Path Festival of Walks is a wonderful opportunity to discover one of Carmarthenshire's most scenic walking routes and the heritage, wildlife and stories that make it so special."
She added: "We're delighted to offer a varied programme for all abilities and are grateful to Walters Group for supporting the festival and helping improve access along the route through the construction of the landmark bridges." For more information and bookings, contact Carmarthenshire Council.
