FAQ

How long does it take to walk the Trail?

We have broken the 80 miles down into 3 stages for ease and within that into 8 walking days. We have tried to finish / start each day in a community where you can find accommodation and access services like transport and shops although this is not always possible.

Is the route waymarked?

We are just completing the waymarking of the entire route and there will be a Guide available soon with plenty of information about the route and the Teifi Valley in general.

We also offer digital waymarking through this website to the Outdoor Active walking app. This is free but if you purchase the premium version of Outdoor Active, you can view the TOPO version of the map (that used by Ordnance Survey). Alternatively you can download the GPX file directly from the website onto your favourite walking app on your phone.

You might like to purchase the relevant OS maps if you wish to have a paper version but sadly you need 4 OS Explorer Maps to cover the entire route (199, 198, 187, 185). You will be better off purchasing the Teifi Valley Trail Guide when it is ready as that will have the relevant OS maps within it or paying for the premium version of a walking app to get the TOPO maps.

How fit do I need to be?

The rule of thumb is to be as fit as you can because usually the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy it. Having said that, many long distance hikers are happy to improve their fitness as they go. Be aware of the distances involved each day and check out the elevation stats which are provided on the Outdoor Active app which will give you some idea of how hard those miles will feel.

What is the best time to do the Trail?

Weather patterns are changing but in general the best walking weather is from April/May to September/October although it is possible to get good walking weather outside of those times. We recommend that you check the weather on a daily basis using the Met Office forecast (www.metoffice.gov.uk) – you can download their app. In west Wales, we tend to get more rain than other parts of the UK so we recommend that you bear that in mind.

What do I need to bring?
  • Wet weather gear is usually essential – waterproof jacket, trousers and hat (with brim which can double as a sun hat perhaps) as well as a waterproof protector for your rucksack.
  • Sturdy walking shoes with a good grip are recommended.
  • Dress in layers of clothing which can be removed or added to depending on the changeable weather.
  • Hiking poles are popular and supportive.
  • Sun tan lotion, snacks, one litre water bottle and insect repellent if walking in the summer are recommended.
  • Also watch / phone / torch, whistle, compass
  • Small first aid kit and reflective strips on clothing or rucksack
How do I get to the start and away from the end without a car?

We have detailed all the transport you will need on the Transport page of the website. Do take a look and if you find other forms of transport which are not listed, please let us know. Thank you.

Can I take a dog?

Many people enjoy walking with their canine friends and there is no reason why that cannot be done along the Teifi Valley Trail. However, dogs should be kept on a retractable lead at all times. The Trail also passes through fields where you will find cattle and sheep and this can cause problems as cattle, in particular, can be reactive to dogs, especially when with calf. Where we know there is often stock, we have tried to highlight this in our new Teifi Valley Trail Guide which will be published in 2025 with alternative route suggestions. But please take all precautions not to aggravate stock with your dog(s) and if at all possible avoid taking them through fields with farm animals.

Can I camp along the Trail?

There is plenty of accommodation along the route including a number of campsites which can be a good base but much of the camping is away from the trail so suits those with a support vehicle best. There is also Claerddu bothy at the start of the trail above Llyn Teifi but this is getting used by larger groups who do not always care for the bothy properly so we do not recommend it for solo or independent walkers at this time. With regard to wild camping, this is only recommended with permission of the farmer so please do ask and follow the code of arriving late, departing early and leaving nothing behind.