We offer the perfect base for your car club tour in South and Mid Wales
Monmouthshire and its surrounding areas boast a wealth of breathtaking scenery, making for some truly memorable drives. Whether travelling independently or as part of a group or club, we can tailor-make a stay for you. Our friendly staff and excellent customer service also ensures we cater to your car club’s every need.
Gordon Murray T50 Fancars
We offer a luxury and bespoke experience for your event which can include including buffet, dinner or afternoon tea and all the amenities you’d expect, with the potential to accommodate 80 or more cars. So, whether you’re looking for event space to hold your local car club meetings, or accommodation to relax in during a car club road trip, we can provide the perfect venue.
Private dining after a day’s drive and a hearty Welsh breakfast each morning of your stay will help you refuel for the next leg of your journey. The hotel boasts free parking, a significant advantage for car clubs with valuable vehicles. Its location, just a short stroll from Usk, allows members to explore the town's amenities easily. With various room types available, including double, twin, and family rooms, the hotel can accommodate the differing needs of your club members.
Numerous car clubs visit us every year and take advantage of plenty of secure, off-road free parking as well as the photographic opportunities in our grounds, with the hotel setting the perfect backdrop. The hotel is of course only one element of a motoring weekend. The second is the tremendous open roads that exist throughout Monmouthshire.
Perfectly located for classic car tours, driving holidays and road trips, exploring the open road and the beautiful scenery that Monmouthshire has to offer – all from the seat of your car. Plan your own driving tour or include some of our recommended routes to ensure you experience breath-taking scenery in your itinerary.
You're in for a real treat! This corner of South Wales is crisscrossed with roads that offer truly breathtaking scenery. You could easily spend days just exploring them!
For a classic route, consider the drive through the Wye Valley. Imagine winding lanes canopied by ancient trees, with glimpses of the majestic River Wye sparkling below. You'll pass through charming villages like Tintern, where the evocative ruins of the abbey stand sentinel by the water's edge. Stop off for a riverside walk or perhaps a picnic with a view.
The Wye Valley Route (A466): This is a classic and arguably the most famous scenic drive in the area. Starting from Chepstow and winding north towards Monmouth, this route follows the River Wye through stunning woodland. You'll pass by the iconic Tintern Abbey, charming villages like St Arvans and Llandogo, and enjoy glimpses of the river at every turn. Consider stopping at viewpoints like the Devil's Pulpit for panoramic vistas of the abbey and the valley. The road itself is a pleasure to drive, with gentle curves and changes in elevation.
Possible stops: Chepstow Castle, Tintern Abbey, Devil's Pulpit, viewpoints along the A466, the town of Monmouth with its Monnow Bridge.
Another gem is the drive through the Brecon Beacons National Park as it brushes the northern edge of Monmouthshire. Expect dramatic mountain vistas, wild open moorland, and maybe even a glimpse of hardy Welsh ponies. The roads here climb and descend, offering panoramic viewpoints that will leave you speechless. Keep an eye out for the Sugar Loaf and Blorenge mountains, iconic landmarks of the area.
Venturing into the Brecon Beacons National Park (easily accessible from Monmouthshire):
Top Gear Driving Route: The Black Mountain Pass (A4069)
Often called the "Top Gear road," this route isn't far west of Monmouthshire and offers a thrilling driving experience with dramatic twists, turns, and high-altitude views. It stretches from Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen to Llangadog, reaching over 1600 feet. Be mindful of sheep and potentially challenging weather conditions.
Possible stops: Numerous viewpoints along the pass offering panoramic vistas of the Tywi Valley.
The Gospel Pass: Wales' highest road, reaching 549 metres above sea level, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Mountains and surrounding countryside. It's located on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, not too far from Hay-on-Wye (which can be reached from Monmouth via scenic smaller roads).
Possible stops: Viewpoints along the pass.
Abergavenny Loop: Starting and ending in Abergavenny, you can take a loop that explores the northern part of Monmouthshire and the southeastern edges of the Brecon Beacons. This could involve driving towards Crickhowell, perhaps visiting Tretower Court and Castle, and enjoying views of the Black Mountains.
Possible stops: Abergavenny, Crickhowell, Tretower Court and Castle, Llangorse Lake (near Brecon).
If you're looking for something a little more pastoral, the routes through the Monmouthshire countryside itself are delightful. Picture rolling green hills dotted with sheep, patchwork fields stretching to the horizon, and quiet lanes leading you past traditional stone farmhouses. Villages like Usk, with its historic castle and charming streets, make for lovely stopping (and stay over) points. Usk town is just a five minute stroll from the hotel.
Don't forget the smaller, unclassified roads that often yield the most surprising discoveries – a hidden waterfall, a quaint country pub, or an unexpected vista. Just take your time, embrace the slow pace, and be prepared to pull over frequently to soak it all in. You're sure to create some unforgettable memories on the scenic drives of Monmouthshire.
Monmouthshire and the Wye Valley:
Chepstow to Raglan via Devauden and Llansoy: As recommended by Visit Wales, this route offers hill views from Devauden and Llansoy that might just make you want to pull over. It takes you through a more rural part of Monmouthshire, eventually leading to the historic Raglan Castle.
Possible stops: Views from Devauden and Llansoy, Raglan Castle.
Monmouth to Cross Ash and Pandy: This cross-country route provides unparalleled views of the Skirrid, Blorenge, and Sugar Loaf peaks near Abergavenny before heading further into Wales.
Possible stops: Scenic viewpoints of the mountains, the villages of Cross Ash and Pandy.
Combining Areas:
Forest of Dean to Brecon Beacons (via Monmouthshire): Some suggested routes combine the Forest of Dean with the Brecon Beacons, naturally passing through parts of Monmouthshire. These longer drives offer a diverse range of scenery, from forests to mountains.
Tips for Scenic Drives:
- Take your time: The beauty of these drives lies in the journey, so don't rush. Allow ample time to stop at viewpoints and explore villages.
- Be prepared for varying road conditions: Some of the mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Drive carefully and be aware of other road users, including cyclists and livestock.
- Check the weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Ensure you have appropriate clothing and that your vehicle is suitable for the conditions.
- Bring a map or use a reliable GPS: While many routes are signposted, having a map as a backup is always a good idea, especially if you plan to explore smaller, less-traveled roads.
- Pack snacks and drinks: Especially on longer drives, it's wise to have refreshments with you.
Stay with us for your car club tour and enjoy the stunning scenery that Monmouthshire and its surrounding regions have to offer!
When planning your car club stay, it's always advisable to contact the hotel directly to discuss parking arrangements, group rates, and any other specific needs your club might have.
