“Ruperra, Mynydd Machen & the Rhymney Valley” (B)

‘An entertaining day out in the Rhymney Valley & it’s adjoining hills….!

Beginning at Rhiwderin, the walk follows ‘The Sirhowey Ridgeway Walk’ all the way to the top of Mynydd Machen via its splendid, gradual ascent. There’s steeper going towards the end, but the views from the top are superb! In good weather one can see the Quantock Hills beyond the Bristol Channel to the south, Twmbarlan to the east, & the Brecon Beacons to the west…

From there it’s down to the small town of Machen & lunch, (+ pub for those interested!).

Thereafter we head pleasantly towards the village of Draethen, following a path beside the R. Rhymney - A steady climb thru’ forestry is then required so as to reach the intriguing ruins of Ruperra Castle, before a further short pull brings us to the unique ‘Ruperra Lookout’! This former hill fort site affords not just a lovely vantage point, but also enables an opportunity to overlook the almost entire view of the day’s excursion - If you haven’t previously visited, you will, I think, be delighted…..

Anyhow, from the ‘Lookout’ it’s speedily down to the delightful Tre’sguthan Lake, & then we cross the River Rhymney via its famed, restored Iron Bridge - Flat terrain is now the order of the day, & after initially walking beside the river, we complete the walk thru’ a pleasing mix of woodland & rural settings to return to our urban startpoint.