   The
first section of the “Mon and Brec”, as it is often called, was
first opened in 1797 and the canal was finally linked through to Newport
in 1812. It carried coal, limestone and iron ore to the great iron works
in the valley towns and in its heyday it was a hive of activity. Now
where there was noise and industry there is a quiet, beautiful canal for
you to enjoy.
 Our
base at Llangynidr (aerial view right) is alongside the B4558, easily accessible from
the A40 or via the B4560 from the Heads of the Valleys road (A465).
The
views from the canal as you cruise along the sides of the hills are
breathtaking. You will soon relax into a lifestyle that cannot be
hurried, 3 m.p.h. is about as fast as you can go. You will have time to
admire the scenery and watch the wildlife that does not seem to be
frightened by the approaching boat.
Operating the locks
and lift bridges provides an insight into the old world of the canals.
How thousands of tons of materials were conveyed many hundreds of feet
up and down the hills. The 375 yard Ashford Tunnel and the aqueduct at
Brynich are remarkable engineering features and are excitingly easy to
navigate.
We
provide you with an excellent guide book containing a detailed
map of the canal with excellent descriptions of the locality showing you
where to find shops, pubs, post offices, etc., also describing walks and
places of interest in the locality. There's more about the canal on the
Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals Trust
website. |
  The
rural towns and villages along the way contain castles, museums,
churches and many interesting buildings, part of the colourful history
of the canal. Other leisure activities
within easy reach of the canal include pony trekking, golf, fishing,
climbing and sailing. Wonderful walks abound along the length of the
canal with many country pubs and restaurants offering good food and
drink and excellent hospitality.
The canal is never crowded, being isolated from the main system. Even in
peak season you can travel for hours without seeing another boat. You
can choose to moor up out in the country, miles from anywhere or
somewhere near a pub or restaurant. You will be able to stop and enjoy
the scenery without worrying about rushing to get back to base. |
