Top Stopovers & Campsites in Powys

Powys offers a wonderful variety of stopover options to suit every type of motorhomer. Traditional caravan and camping sites are scattered throughout the county, with many offering generous pitches and full facilities including water, waste, and electric hook-ups. For a more intimate experience, CLs (Certified Locations) operated by local farmers and landowners provide quiet, small-group stopovers perfect for those seeking a peaceful night away from busy sites. Pub stopovers are popular in Powys's market towns, offering the chance to support local businesses whilst enjoying a drink and meal before settling in for the evening. Many accommodation providers across the county have recognised the growing motorhome market and now offer dedicated pitches with services, making it easy to explore the region at a comfortable pace.

Suggested Touring Routes in Powys

The Brecon Beacons Scenic Loop (80–100 km / 50–62 miles, 2–3 days)

This route takes you through some of Wales's most spectacular mountain scenery. Start in Brecon itself, then head south on the A470 towards Merthyr Tydfil, ascending through dramatic valleys. Return via the A40 east of Crickhowell, passing Tretower Court and Castle. The Beacons Visitor Centre near Libanus makes an excellent stopping point. Overnight suggestions include stopover areas near Brecon town and smaller CLs dotted around the villages of Crickhowell and Talgarth. Roads are well-maintained, though some sections around mountain passes can be narrow—standard motorhome height clearance (typically 3.5–4m) poses no issues on main routes.

The Wye Valley & Hay-on-Wye Route (70–90 km / 43–56 miles, 2–3 days)

Follow the A438 and B4350 through the picturesque Wye Valley towards Hay-on-Wye, famous for its second-hand bookshops and market town atmosphere. Continue northward through Rhayader and the Elan Valley, where you'll find stunning reservoirs and mountain views. This route is gentler than the Beacons loop, with plenty of opportunities for short woodland walks and waterside stops. Several market towns along the way—Hay, Rhayader, Builth Wells—have pub stopovers and small sites. Excellent for those prioritising quieter roads and literary exploration.

The Cambrian Mountains Traverse (100–130 km / 62–81 miles, 3–4 days)

A more challenging but rewarding route that takes you through the wild Cambrian heartland. Head north from Rhayader on the A44 and A470, exploring remote villages and mountain passes around Machynlleth and the Dovey Valley. This route includes some narrow, winding mountain roads, so allow extra time for careful driving. The landscape here is pristine and largely undeveloped—perfect for those seeking real wilderness. Services are more sparse, so fill up fuel tanks in larger towns beforehand. Overnight stops include small CLs and quiet rural stopovers.

Things to Do in Powys

Powys is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The Brecon Beacons National Park dominates the south, offering world-class hiking trails ranging from gentle riverside walks to challenging mountain ascents. Pen y Fan, Corn Du, and Cribyn are the classic peaks, accessible from well-established car parks. The Elan Valley, north of Rhayader, features a chain of Victorian reservoirs surrounded by forest walks—peaceful spots to stretch your legs and spot red kites, which are abundant in this region.

Historic attractions pepper the landscape: Tretower Court and Castle near Crickhowell offers medieval splendour, whilst the ruins of Hay Castle overlook the charming book-town of Hay-on-Wye. Builth Wells hosts the Royal Welsh Show each July, a major agricultural event worth timing your trip around. Water-based activities are popular—kayaking and canoeing on the Wye and Severn rivers attract visitors throughout the warmer months. Local pubs and farm shops showcase genuine Welsh hospitality and excellent local produce, from lamb to artisan cheeses and craft beers.

Practical Information for Motorhomers in Powys

Powys is well-served for essential services. Fuel stations are located in all major towns—Brecon, Hay-on-Wye, Builth Wells, and Rhayader—though rural areas require planning. Fresh water taps are available at most campsites and many pub stopovers; bring a hose adapter as facilities vary. Waste water and toilet disposal facilities are widespread across CLs and campsites but scarcer in remote areas, so plan your services accordingly.

Most main roads (A40, A470, A438) have generous height clearance (typically 4m+), but some country lanes and bridge passes do carry restrictions, particularly around Brecon town centre. Download offline maps and check bridge heights before detouring off main routes. Mobile signal can be patchy in mountains and remote valleys. Larger motorhome-friendly pubs include facilities and parking; smaller country pubs may have limited space, so call ahead.

FAQs: Motorhome Touring in Powys