Why the Unicorn Hotel Is the Perfect Base for Walkers, Cyclists & Bikers
Explore Mid-Wales from a cosy, characterful hotel designed with outdoor adventurers in mind.
Mid-Wales is one of the UK’s most underrated outdoor destinations. With peaceful valleys, open moorlands, forest tracks, winding mountain roads, and the spectacular Cambrian Mountains on your doorstep, it’s a playground for walkers, cyclists, and motorcyclists alike.
And right at the heart of this region sits Llanidloes — a charming market town that makes the perfect base for exploring the area’s beauty. The Unicorn Hotel, with its warm hospitality, characterful rooms, and central location, is ideally placed for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Wales’ great outdoors.
Whether you're here for a scenic hike, a long-distance cycle, or a recharging ride through the mountains, here’s why the Unicorn Hotel should be your starting point.
1. Prime Location at the Gateway to the Cambrian Mountains
Llanidloes is uniquely positioned as one of the key gateways into the Cambrian Mountains, an expansive region often described as the “Green Desert of Wales.” The landscapes are vast, open, and unspoiled — a dream for anyone who enjoys nature and outdoor freedom.
From the Unicorn Hotel, you’re only minutes away from:
✅ Mountain trails
✅ Forest walks
✅ Scenic road routes
✅ The start of Glyndŵr’s Way
✅ Lakes, rivers, and reservoirs
✅ Panoramic viewpoints
It’s rare to find a small town with this much outdoor access, making the Unicorn ideal for exploring without long travel times.
2. Walkers Love the Variety of Trails Nearby
Walkers staying at the Unicorn Hotel enjoy direct access to some of the best trails in Mid-Wales. Whether you’re looking for a gentle riverside wander or a challenging mountain ascent, Llanidloes offers something for every ability.
Popular walking routes include:
⭐ Hafren Forest Trails
Peaceful, family-friendly routes along rivers and waterfalls.
⭐ The Source of the River Severn
A must-do walk leading to the start of the UK’s longest river.
⭐ Glyndŵr’s Way National Trail
A long-distance route for serious walkers — and it starts right in Llanidloes.
⭐ Llyn Clywedog Reservoir
Scenic loops with breathtaking views, wildlife spotting, and picnic spots.
⭐ Pumlumon Fawr (Plynlimon)
The highest peak in the Cambrian Mountains — a tougher ascent with huge rewards.
With so many choices in every direction, you can spend a full week walking and never repeat the same route twice.
3. A Cyclist-Friendly Base for Scenic Riding & Mountain Challenges
Cyclists love Mid-Wales for its quiet roads, scenic passes, and challenging climbs. The area is ideal for:
✅ Road cycling
✅ Gravel riding
✅ Mountain biking
✅ Long-distance touring
Popular cycling routes around Llanidloes:
- Loops around Llyn Clywedog
- Forest trails in Hafren Forest
- Climbs into the Cambrian Mountains
- Scenic back-road routes toward Machynlleth and the coast
- Multi-day touring routes across Mid-Wales
Thanks to low traffic and inspiring landscapes, this region is perfect for both casual riders and serious cyclists. After a long day in the saddle, returning to a warm, cosy hotel makes the experience even better.
4. Motorcyclists Love Our Scenic Roads & Friendly Welcome
The Unicorn Hotel is especially popular with motorcyclists exploring Mid-Wales. The surrounding area offers:
✅ Smooth, winding mountain roads
✅ Quiet valleys
✅ Long, open stretches perfect for relaxed riding
✅ Stunning viewpoints
✅ Easy loops to multiple Welsh towns
Routes toward the A44, A470, or the Cambrian Mountains offer breathtaking rides through some of the most scenic roads in the UK.
And after the ride?
The Unicorn’s Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a drink, and chat with other travellers.
5. Comfortable, Cosy Rooms After a Day of Adventure
After a long day outdoors, comfort matters.
The Unicorn Hotel’s rooms are designed with relaxation in mind, offering:
✅ Quality bedding
✅ Warm, relaxing décor
✅ Modern en-suite bathrooms
✅ Family-friendly and group-friendly room options
✅ A peaceful atmosphere for deep rest
Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, a family, or a travelling group of cyclists, we have room types to match your needs.
6. Honest Food, Good Coffee & a Welcoming Lounge
Proper food is essential after a long walk or ride — and the Unicorn delivers. Our Gallery Café and Lounge offers:
✅ Fresh coffee
✅ Homemade cakes & bakes
✅ Light lunches
✅ A relaxed, cosy environment
✅ Local ales and evening drinks in the bar
It’s the ideal place to refuel, rehydrate, and reflect on your day’s adventures.
The café’s rotating local artwork also adds a creative touch to the experience.
7. A Relaxed, No-Fuss Base With Friendly, Hands-On Hospitality
Staying at the Unicorn means experiencing genuine, warm Welsh hospitality. We’re an owner-led hotel with a hands-on approach — friendly, helpful, and always ready to offer tips about local routes and hidden gems.
Guests appreciate:
✅ Flexible service
✅ Local recommendations
✅ A homely, welcoming atmosphere
✅ Staff who understand what outdoor travellers need
It’s the kind of friendliness that makes you want to return year after year.
8. Practical Perks for Outdoor Travellers
In addition to the comfort and location, the Unicorn offers practical conveniences that outdoor travellers appreciate:
✅ Central town location
✅ Easy parking nearby
✅ Drying-friendly rooms (ideal after rainy walks)
✅ Tea & coffee facilities
✅ Reliable Wi-Fi
✅ Community energy and relaxed atmosphere
It’s a small hotel that understands the needs of active guests.
Final Thoughts: Your Adventure Starts and Ends at the Unicorn Hotel
Whether you're hiking up Pumlumon, cycling scenic loops through the valleys, or riding mountain roads on a motorbike, Mid-Wales offers some of the best outdoor experiences anywhere in the UK.
By choosing the Unicorn Hotel as your base, you're choosing:
✅ Comfort
✅ Warmth
✅ A perfect location
✅ Good food and good company
✅ A hotel that feels genuinely welcoming
This combination makes your outdoor adventure even more memorable.
Pack your boots, bikes, and helmets — Mid-Wales is waiting, and the Unicorn Hotel is ready to welcome you.
