Directions to Rheola

You are allowed to go into Rheola by pedal cycle or by foot. Although the track there is not any kind of official right of way.

Note: Rheola is a very sensitive area for the Forestry Commission. Mainly because they cannot lock the gate there due to the large number of operators who have mineral rights in the area. So, DO NOT take vehicles into the forest, even if the gate is open. This is how we got banned from using the venue in 2000. At the moment we only have the use of Rheola for 2005 and grateful we are too. It looks like the area is going to be developed for more mining operations in 2006. If this happens then we are out again.

We have been warned that if people go in there with vehicles to do unauthorised uplifts we will have the venue pulled immediately.

Head up the M4 to Swansea, continue to Junction 43. Take the A465, continue past Resolven. Take the first Glyn Neath turn (by Macdonalds). Take the next left (after Macdonalds) which is the B4242 (the old A465). Drive down this road for about a mile and the entrance to the venue is on the right opposite a layby.

Alternatively, you can get on the A465 halfway between Newport and Monmouth and drive past Abergavenny and Merthyr along the 'Heads of the Valleys' Road. It's a nice drive if you know it and would avoid and football or rugby traffic down Cardiff if there is anything on.

Contrary to earlier published information there is NO CAMPING at the venue at the National Champs at Rheola. Sorry about this, but the farmer just pulled permission to use it as it's flooded and too soft. staying in vans IS acceptable in the Forest, leaving litter/rubbish is NOT acceptable.

Good camping at Dare Valley Country Park Tel: 01685 874672

or Dan yRogoff Showcaves 01639 730284

Local accomodation

Drwfs Nesaf 01639 720035

Craig y Dinas 01639 720378

Forresters House 01639 720250

Old Bakehouse, Glynneath 01639 720375

We are only 10-15 minutes away from Rheola, We charge £ 40 for a single room, and £ 65 for a tein, B&B. Check out enclosed website. Cheers, Thorleif........................ Ashgrove Inn Website http://www.ashgroveinn.co.uk

Please call tourist information in Neath on 01639 721795.