45 miles/48 pages

Although this is a relatively short "long-distance" walk it is packed with lots of interest. Many parts of the walk visit wild, remote but tranquil areas. The only company you will have is likely to be the farm animals grazing the hillsides or soaring birds such as red kites and buzzards. Without any additions the length is only 41¾ miles making it eminently suitable for a 4 day excursion. However, variations are included for a total of 45½ miles and if the additional walk to Borth from Aberystwyth is undertaken then the total is 51½ miles. Originally the first part of this walk only went from Borth to Devil's Bridge. This was known as the Mal Evans Way, named after the man who was once the chairman of the Aberystwyth Group of the Ramblers Association before the signed walk was extended to Pontrhydfendigaid. The walk to Strata Florida is well signed.

Although there are route signs they can disappear and some sections are not well marked. However, new signs are appearing where route finding is more difficult whilst some signs are showing their age. As such they rot and fall down and then somehow move away from where they are supposed to be! During forestry work this is particularly true. One section in particular goes through a felled area and signs are few and far between, but the ones that are there are correctly placed.

Borth is conveniently situated on the Cambrian Coast Railway, close to Aberystwyth. Pontrhydfendigaid is linked by a bus service to Aberystwyth to return to after the walk. From here it is then possible to walk the 6 miles long coastal path to return to Borth. The scenery is very varied from coastal, river, woodland, upland moors to farmland. There is also much mining history attached to the area. The alternative walk described in the guide through the Hafod Estate is a must and is much more interesting than the normal way. Mining information can be gleaned from the information panels, by the Spirit of the Miners, along the route but additional information is included in the walk description.

An excellent expedition through a fine part of mid Wales.