Whether you would prefer to sit on the patio overlooking the valley or take the kids on a day out, Basel Cottage is the perfect central location to explore Mid and South West Wales and its beautiful surroundings. Take a look below at only a selection of things to do and places to visit.
Things to Do
Walking – Basel Cottage is set in 17 acres of countryside of which guests and pets are free to roam. There are also plenty of nearby walking trails including the Crychan Forest trails where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the forest.
Cycling – Llandovery is a cycling destination with a host of routes to suit all levels of cyclists.
Tywi Valley Path – The landmark 13-mile walking and cycling route through the Tywi Valley was officially opened in May 2026 marking a major milestone for sustainable travel and tourism in Carmarthenshire. Once a quiet railway line linking Carmarthen and Llandeilo, it has been transformed into a vibrant, traffic-free route that invites walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers to explore the very heart of Carmarthenshire.
Horse Riding – There are a number of places to go horse riding including Llangorse and Cantref Riding Centre.
Bird Watching – You can enjoy the wildlife from the comfort of the gardens at Basel Cottage and we even have binoculars for you to use and take a closer look. Additionally, there is The Red Kite Feeding Station and The British Bird of Prey Centre nearby which are both well worth a visit.
Beaches – Basel Cottage is the perfect place to explore the coast, with nearby beaches such as Pembrey, Llansteffan, Tenby, The Swansea Beaches, Newquay and Cardigan Bay.
Discover the Cambrian Mountains and escape to the Elan Valley and Llyn Brianne Dark Sky Discovery Site.
Llandovery Sheep Festival – Adventures in fun, food and wool. This fabulous annual weekend event is held in the town of Llandovery in September.
Are you a biker? Then why not join us in Llandovery, set in the beautiful Tywi Valley in Carmarthenshire – dramatic mountain passes, lush winding countryside and sweeping bends that make for an engaging ride. Discover hidden gems like biker-friendly cafes such as the Owl’s Nest Tea Room Diner and historic viewpoints like the Devil’s Staircase.
Hiking the Heart of Wales Line
The Heart of Wales Line has trundled slowly and scenically between Swansea and Shrewsbury for over 150 years. Now, it’s providing fun for walkers too. Completed in 2019, the Heart of Wales Line Trail is a 225km hiking route that shadows the tracks, wending between stations and through miles of wonderful Welsh countryside.
Walking Links
Click below to download PDFs of some of our best local walks.
Places to Visit
The National Botanic Garden of Wales
Newton House, Dinefwr Park and Castle
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)
Myddfai Community Centre and Cafe – Profits from this homely cafe help sustain isolated Myddfai; the cake is good and there’s the option to detour to legend-laced Llyn y Fan Fach Lake.
Activities and Experiences
Enjoy and discover unique experiences in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park with GOOD DAY OUT. Walk with KuneKune pigs, mini donkeys, and herd sheep with Welsh collies. Good Day Out offers engaging, hands-on days out for adults which are led by friendly, knowledgeable trainers who share a passion for well-cared-for animals.
Join a friendly pack of alpacas on an epic outdoor adventure through the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park with Alpaca My Boots.
With incredible views of the surrounding countryside, hills and mountains, you will see the very best, this part of Wales has to offer in the close company of its most loveable local residents!
Llandovery is home to a number of talented Craft Makers and in addition to hosting various events throughout the year, our Artists hold their own individual workshops so that visitors to the area can unleash their own creativity and learn new skills.
CROESO to Jane from Fabulous Feltings and her world of wet-felted artistry, where each creation tells a story.
From wraps and throws to stunning wall hangings and elegant vessels, Jane’s pieces are crafted with the finest wool, vintage fabrics, silk and other exotic fibres, resulting in truly one-of-a-kind treasures.
Jane loves sharing her passion for felt-making with others – Why not join Jane in her riverside studio in Llandovery, for a full-day wet-felting workshop and unleash your creativity alongside friends, leaving with beautiful handmade keepsakes.
