Gentle Walk from Llechryd to Cilgerran Castle along the River Teifi
4th May 2010
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If you enjoy hiking or indeed a gentle stroll West Wales is the place to be with a plethora of walks for all ages and abilities.  Over the coming weeks I will share some of my favourite with you. 

A pretty walk especially at this time of year is along the Teifi River from Llechryd to Cilgerran Castle. The walk to the Castle and back will take not longer than and hour and a half..  It is an easy walk and suitable for Children but take care they do not fall into the River!  If you have a pair of binoculars it is worth taking them with you as if you are lucky you might just see Otters not to mention the birds.

I park my car opposite the entrance to Castell Malgwyn, by the old bridge in Llechryd.  Then with an overly excited Aphrodite (my American Cocker Spaniel) on the lead, cross the road and take the foot path which runs alongside the river with Castell Malgwyn on the left.  It was at this point on a new year’s day that I saw my very first Otter.  In fact I was with my husband and 4 friends plus 3 dogs so it was even more of a surprise that the Otter should show his face so close to us.  The Otter stayed with us for around 5 minutes diving and popping up again to say hello.  Quite marvellous.

On with the walk.  The path is fairly easy terrain but does have tree roots running through it so take care.  The walk takes you alongside the river all the way to Cilgerran Castle but occasionally you will find yourself looking down upon the River from several feet above and other times you are right along side it.  It is a very tranquil walk and if the Sun is shining the dappled light is especially pretty.

There is abundant bird life and you may well see dippers in the shallows (look to me as if they have dipped themselves in a bowl of cream) along with grey wagtails flitting amongst the rocks.  You are likely to see Buzzards floating majestically in the sky above and if quiet you will see Kingfishers on a overhanging branch. Herons are regular visitors and occasionally you will see a Cormorant diving for fish.

Just before arriving at the foot of the castle you will come to the Visitors Centre, which will give you the history of the Coracle.  Conveniently there are public toilets here too!.       It is at this point that I have also seen Otters.  But Otters are best seen in very early morning, just as the sun rises or late evening before the sun sets.

As with most walks – this walk can be extended.  You can include the next leg which takes you up past the Castle and high up on top of the Gorge through to the Wild Life Centre further down the River, but more about that the next time. Enjoy your walk!

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Diana V

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I am Diana Vickers, the site owner of thebestof Cardigan & Teifi Valley, which supports the very best of the area’s businesses with their promotions and marketing. The site is soon coming up to its fifth...

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