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Water Adventures in Mid Wales | Paddling, Rafting and Coasteering

Mid Wales has sheltered estuaries, lakes, a dam-released white water river and miles of coast, so there are water sports for every level. This guide groups the best places by area, with instructors and centres that provide the kit. Most run from spring to autumn.

Cardigan Bay: surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking

Aber Adventures runs surf, paddleboard and kayak sessions around Borth, Ynyslas and Llyn Pendam near Aberystwyth, for beginners upwards. Borth beach has gentle surf for learners. Blue Ocean Activities runs coasteering and activity weekends, climbing and jumping along the rocky coast with guides, wetsuits and helmets provided.

Powys lakes: flat water for learners

Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park near Caersws has flat-water lakes for stand-up paddleboarding and other activities, which suits nervous beginners and younger children. Llyn Clywedog near Llanidloes has a sailing club, and the reservoir road makes a good afternoon drive, with a picnic spot and viewpoint above the dam.

Bala: white water rafting

The National White Water Centre on the Afon Tryweryn near Bala uses water released from the dam upstream, so the river runs even in dry summers. Rafting trips suit groups and families with older children.

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons): lakes and rivers

At Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in south Wales, Llangorse Multi Activity Centre offers climbing, riding and other activities. Black Mountain Adventure near Brecon runs canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding and gorge walking, and The Paddlesport Shop, run by the same family, sells and advises on kit.

Staying safe

• Go with an instructor if you're new to a sport. Cold water shock is a risk, even in summer.
• Check weather, tides and water levels before you go, and never paddle alone.
• Swimming is not allowed in many reservoirs, including the Elan Valley. Follow the signs.
• More on our watersports, canoeing and SUP page.