Bluetits Welsh Waterfalls Weekend 2023

This trip has been graded as moderate to challenging for someone of good fitness. A Bluetit motto is ‘No Bluetit Left Behind!’ so what is most important is that you feel able to enjoy the weekend.

You will never be pressured to go out of your depth or beyond your comfort zone when it comes to swimming but you must be able to tread water in order to get the most out of the wild swimming adventure.

This weekend does involve walking distances of up to 5 miles. You will be required to navigate some steep sections with sharp drops with terrain that could be muddy or slippery underfoot.

You do not need any experience of wild swimming or be a member of the Bluetits Chill Swimmers to take part in this adventure weekend. It is advised that you know how to tread water to be able to get the most enjoyment out of the trip.

There will be plenty of walking involved and it would be useful to prepare for this ahead of the trip so you remain comfortable.

The weather in the UK is unpredictable and changeable so you must check the local weather forecast prior to arrival and pack accordingly.

Typically, days are cool (average 12°C) and nights are chilly (down to around 7°C). The water temperature will be around 10°C.

Please note it is possible to experience extreme deviations from the normal climate pattern and very cold conditions are not impossible. Climate and weather conditions during the trip are out of our control. It is extremely important that you take responsibility to prepare yourself for all weather conditions during this challenge.

Our qualified Bluetit swimming guides are very used to dipping with people new to cold water swimming, and will explain what to expect at every step. We encourage you to take part in ‘The Bluetit Chorus’, which involves plenty of singing, shouting and the odd swear word to help your breath to acclimatise to the cold. Only you know your body, and we advise that you take things easy and allow your body and mind to acclimatise to the cold gradually.

Anyone aged 18+ can take part in the adventure weekend. You must have a good level of fitness, able to self-manage (e.g. you know how to keep hydrated, nourished, warm and dry) and be in good health. You will enjoy the weekend to the fullest if you enjoy being outdoors and want to gently challenge your limits with a supportive group of people. The Bluetit values are Trust, Fun and Inclusivity, and if you share these, you will love this holiday!

Please also note that all participants must be able to swim and tread water comfortably.

This challenge is accompanied by professional Bluetits swim tour guides who will offer expert instruction in techniques and supervise throughout the trip.

You will need to wear comfortable walking boots for the plentiful walking element of the weekend and we advise you to bring waterproofs given the inclement weather we can experience here in the UK.

Normal swimwear is adequate for swimming. A tow float, swim shoes and brightly-coloured hat are essential for safety reasons. Other swimming accessories, such as wet suits, rash vests, swim shoes, gloves, goggles etc., are not essential but may make you feel more comfortable.

You will also need to bring some dry clothes to change into after your swim. Your body temperature continues to cool for 20-30 minutes after you exit the water and warming up immediately is essential. Loose-fitting clothes, such as big fleecy pyjamas and oversized jumpers, are easier to put on with numb hands and fingers. A wooly hat and big gloves or mittens are also helpful.

Please see the full suggested kit list below.

We will be staying in multi-share rooms at Glyntawe Outdoor Centre.

The Centre is nestled among the rolling hills of the Swansea Valley in the southern region of the Brecon Beacons.

All meals will be provided as specified in the itinerary below.

Breakfast and evening meals will be taken at the hostel, and packed lunches provided.

If you have any dietary requirements you must inform us in advance.

Canyons are natural gorges that have been carved out of the mountainside by a water current. Canyoning is the activity to navigate these dramatic channels through rock climbing, scrambling, swimming and cliff jumping.

This unique and exhilarating activity will provide you with spots to jump, stretches to swim, plenty of caves to explore and waterfalls to slide down.

Please note: This activity is optional and must be pre-booked at an additional cost. Equipment will be provided but please consult the full suggested kit list below.

The kit list for this trip can be downloaded here.