Join me on a journey across the ancient Roman road of Sarn Helen. A long forgotten byway once connecting North and South Wales.
Embarking on a centuries old Roman road, through the very heart of Wales, you really feel an overwhelming notion of trepidation. These ancient roads, once the only way from the North to the South of Wales, still hold onto the many memories of the past. From the rugged, 2,000-year-old stone walls that line the track, to the long forgotten monuments and buildings that we encounter.
Meandering up the many hairpins of Walters Arena, climbing higher through the forestry, it is remarkable to think of the many journeys that this road has witnessed. Once providing a means to move troops and goods, Sarn Helen is considered to be amongst the best-preserved sections of Roman road in Wales.
Technical deep ditches, rutted roads and slippery singletrack lies ahead. Navigating the many rock gardens and steep sections of the Roman road takes skill, precision and concentration.
However difficult it may seem, having the privilege to drive on such historically rich byways, far outweighs the unforgiving nature of the experience. You can almost imagine the hardship that travellers must have gone through to reach their final destination. How many stories, fortunes and precious resources were passed on their way in this very place?
“The joy is in the journey, not just the destination.” – Unknown
As we cross the common land, we take a well-deserved stop for a bite to eat. Panoramic views of Swansea and its surrounding areas can be seen from this vantage point.
However, our tranquil lunch break is merely a prelude of what’s to come. Washed out rock-filled gullies bring us back to civilization. Arguably one of the most challenging and demanding portions of this stretch of Sarn Helen.
To conclude an epic day of off-roading, there’s still one last hair raising moment to keep us on our toes. As we traverse a steep incline that carves its way through the trees, the leading Discovery cross axles on a tricky section. This creates a startling image as it teeters on 2 wheels.
“The ending of a journey is not the most important part, for it is the memories, growth, and transformation that occurred along the way that truly define its worth.” – Unknown
Will you be tackling the Roman roads of Wales this year?
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