Nant yr Arian: the ridge and the red kites

The walk starts from the car park at the Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, off the A44 about 9 miles east of Aberystwyth. It climbs a path to a big chair viewpoint, goes on north up the footpath along the ridge above the car park, then comes round on a path east of the ridge to the lake where the red kites are fed, and returns to the car park. Natural Resources Wales says the ridge looks over Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains.

It is 3.7 km with 122 m of ascent; allow about 1½ hours. The grade is Easy.

Natural Resources Wales says the waymarked trails here have long, steep climbs and descents, rough and wet surfaces, and parts very exposed to the weather. Dogs are welcome on a lead or under close control. Red kites are fed by the lake every day at 2pm, and it is free to watch; as many as 150 can come, often more in winter. The Barcud Trail round the lake is the accessible route to the viewing area and the hide.

Parking charges apply every day from 6am to 11:59pm: up to 1 hour £1, up to 2 hours £3, up to 4 hours £7, all day £12. Pay by contactless at the machine, which takes no cash, or with RingGo. The café and shop no longer operate; there are portable toilets and a drinks and cold food unit in the car park. The X47 bus between Aberystwyth and Llanidloes stops on request at the entrance to the car park.

Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.