Craig Cerrig-gleisiad National Nature Reserve
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Overview
The Craig Cerrig-Gleisiad NNR, just a few hundred yards from the A470 Merthyr Tydfil-Brecon road, is an atmospheric amphitheatre created by the 500ft (150m) high crags of Craig Cerrig-Gleisiad. The NNR’s prize botanical feature is the rare arctic-alpine plants at their southern limit in Britain – such as purple saxifrage and mossy saxifrage – which cling to the reserve’s ledges, gullies and crags. They are just some of over 500 plants that have been recorded. The vertical woodland of the crags supports trees and shrubs including hawthorn, rowan, mountain ash and rare whitebeams. But the cliffs only make up a fraction of the 156-acre (63ha) NNR. The lower slopes are home to mixed woodland and flowers such as orchids and anemones, while the moorlands above supports heather and bilberry. Around 80 different bird species either visit or breed in the reserve. Peregrine falcons nest on the cliffs and the raven, merlin and red kite can also be seen in the skies, the latter especially at Craig Cwm-Du. Summer visitors include wheatears, ring ouzels, skylarks and chaffinches.
About the area
The largest unitary authority in Wales, Powys covers an area of approximately 2,000 square miles. Much of that is mountainous because it actually has the lowest population density of all the Welsh counties.
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Nearby places to stay
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Caravan & Camping
Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park
- Launderette
- Ice pack facility
- Picnic Area
- Shop onsite
Nearby places to stay
Castle of Brecon
Set within the historic heart of Brecon, this charming hotel blends centuries of heritage with modern comfort. Reputed as Wales’ oldest hotel, The Castle of Brecon offers 42 individuall...
The Castle Coaching Inn
The Castle Coaching Inn is a refurbished Georgian hotel set on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It has ten stylish en suite rooms, a cosy bar, and a restaurant serving loca...
Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park
Lying in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, this charming park offers peace, beautiful scenery, high-quality facilities and a wildflower meadow. It is bordered by the Brecon...
Lakeside Caravan Park
Surrounded by spectacular mountains and set close to Llangorse Lake, with mooring and launching facilities, Lakeside Caravan Park is a must-do holiday destination for lovers of outdoor ...
Anchorage Caravan Park
Anchorage Caravan Park is a well-maintained site with a choice of south-facing, sloping grass pitches and superb views of the Black Mountains, or a more sheltered lower area with a numb...
Llandovery Caravan Park
Within easy walking distance of the town centre and adjacent to the notable Llandovery Dragons Rugby Club, this constantly improving park is an ideal base for touring the Brecon Beacons...
Riverside Caravan & Camping Park
Within a few minutes' walk of the river and town centre with its excellent shopping and eating choices, is this all-level park. It is surrounded by mature hedges and trees to create pri...
The Bear
The Bear is a favourite with locals as well as visitors; the character and friendliness of this 15th-century coaching inn are renowned. Bedrooms come in a variety of sizes and include s...
