Where:Powys, Wales
How Long:16 Miles
Added:21 December 2011
This great road takes us to the heart of Wales for a truly spectacular drive. Hidden away in Powys – the largest Welsh county – between the historic market towns of Builth Wells and Brecon is the B4520
Starting in Builth Wells, just 40 miles north of Cardiff, the road takes us south along the Brecon Road.
At first the road climbs rapidly while the excitement of what's still to come builds.
After three miles of single lanes, crests and dead ground the road really starts to warm up.
Long sweeping curves carry you through the open moorland terrain where you can enjoy the rhythm of the road.
Just keep an eye out for sheep and farm vehicles. The cattle grids are a good clue that this is farming country.
As you cross Llanewir Cwm and pass through Duhonw and eventually Llangynog, the road does its best to throw you into the ditch, so it must be treated with great respect.
It's also worth bearing in mind that this area is used by the MOD so don't be surprised by explosions or light machine gun fire in the distance.
As the 16 mile route progresses you'll pass through Upper Chapel, Lower Chapel, Pwllgloyw and finally Llandefaelog Fach.
You'll also notice that the intensity of the road begins to drop into a mellow cruise.
The B4520 to Brecon is a well-weighted drive that provides a good introduction which slowly builds to a crescendo during the mid-section and finally eases up as you reach the end of the journey.
Have you driven this route? Do you live nearby and have any local knowledge which you can add to this?
