HOURS: 2-4
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DISTANCE: 8.8 miles (14.1km)
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STYLE: RIVER
(non-navigable) |
MONTH ATTEMPTED: MAY
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SUP RATING: ***
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SUP THE WYEThe River Wye is the fifth longest river in the UK flowing from its source located high up in the Cambrian Mountain Range in Mid-Wales all the way through to the Severn Estuary in the south. The river stretches 133.5 miles (215km) from source to sea flowing along and providing much of the border between Wales and England. The valley surrounding the river is officially considered as 'an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB)' meaning it is a protected conservation area - what a great area to explore by SUP.
This route begins at a Pay & Display Car Park* located at Wye Pursuits (HR9 5QX) with an entry point located at the far end. Access to the river is via concrete steps. Please note that the access point is not huge and as a result it doesn't take much for a queue to form. It is best to prepare yourself and your board in the car park to avoid causing delays to other paddlers wanting swift access. Once on the water follow the flow down stream. The route is straight forward along this stretch; there are no adjoining streams, no off-shoots and no locks. It is the perfect location to enjoy the passing greenery, listen to the birds or just lose yourself in your thoughts. Along the way you will pass plenty of locations on the shoreline to stop, explore, relax and have a picnic or a light refreshment**. The only thing to be wary of is that in some locations the river is particularly shallow with rock close to (but not breaching) the surface causing fast flowing water that could potentially push your SUP towards the bank and into the foliage. For the regular paddler these areas are easy to spot and avoidable without having to leave the water. For those less experienced always be wary when seeing localised choppy water ahead and try and give it a wide berth. As the river meanders through the stunning valley it enters a horse shoe loop beginning at 'Yat Rock'. Look up: the imposing vertical rock face is a stunning natural feature and a major landmark on this route, photos don't do it justice and it is best seen from the water below. As you leave the horse shoe loop you'll will find an access point located on the left bank at Wyedean Canoe and Adventure Centre***. Here you will find pubs for refreshment but be aware hearty food is hard to come by in this area between 15:00-18:30. This route is shared with canoes and kayaks. During hot days, school holidays etc... it can become busy but the river is wide enough that you should still be able paddle unhindered and still find the peace and tranquility that the SUP is famous for. |
TYPE OF TRAIL: One Way
(8.8 miles / 14.1 kilometres) PORTAGES & LOCKS: 0 (NIL) GENERAL INFORMATION* = The Pay & Display Car Park only takes coins for payment. At time of publishing: £5.00 for up to 5 hours and £10.00 thereafter per vehicle. There is a warden that lives on site that can provide change if needed but it's best not to rely on this and come prepared.
** = Leave the area as you found it. Bring out any litter or debris and dispose of it properly. *** = Be aware that Wyedean Canoe and Adventure Centre charge £2 per board to use the mooring point. If you are aiming to exit the river here then make sure you have adequate cash to settle the bill. |