Old Forge Cottage provides the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking active adventures in some of Britain’s most spectacular landscapes. The enviable location puts you within easy reach of world-class walking, cycling and water-based activities suitable for all ages and ability levels.
For walkers, the possibilities begin directly from your doorstep. Ross-on-Wye offers delightful riverside paths and town trails that require no driving to access. More ambitious hikers can join the Wye Valley Walk, which passes through Ross on its 136-mile journey from Chepstow to Plynlimon. The cottage’s location also provides easy access to sections of Offa’s Dyke Path and the Three Castles Walk, both offering well-maintained trails through varied landscapes with historical interest.
Those seeking more challenging terrain can drive just 30 minutes to reach the dramatic Black Mountains, where paths like those to the summit of the Sugar Loaf or along the spectacular Cat’s Back ridge offer exhilarating high-level walks with panoramic views. Closer to home, Symonds Yat presents shorter but equally rewarding paths to viewpoints that showcase the Wye’s famous horseshoe bend.
Cyclists will find themselves spoilt for choice with options ranging from gentle family routes to technical mountain bike challenges. The Forest of Dean boasts purpose-built cycling trails at Cannop Cycle Centre, including the family-friendly Verderers’ Trail and more challenging downhill sections for experienced riders. Road cyclists can enjoy the quiet lanes of Herefordshire’s Golden Valley or tackle the climbs of the Malvern Hills for a more testing ride.
Perhaps most iconic of all local activities is canoeing on the River Wye, widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest rivers for paddling. Several local companies offer canoe and kayak hire with various trip options, from gentle two-hour paddles to full-day adventures. The river’s generally gentle flow makes it suitable for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore longer stretches independently.
For those preferring guided experiences, local adventure companies offer gorge walking, rock climbing at Symonds Yat, and abseiling experiences. Whatever your preferred activity, Old Forge Cottage’s strategic location ensures you’ll spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the magnificent outdoor playground that surrounds you in every direction.
