Travel Guide Llanwrtyd Wells (Llanwrtyd)

This village of Welsh eccentrics is now famous all over the country, and even across the border! The peaceful village of 600 inhabitants (one of the smallest in Wales) attracts crowds and media for unique events held here throughout the year. It all began in 1980, when two men over a pint (or two!) in a pub bet that, over a long distance, man could run faster than horse, and set up the first race of its kind. Today, it attracts runners from all over the world, spurred on by the £25,000 prize money for the man who beats the horse. It wasn't until the twenty-fifth anniversary of the race, in 2004, that the man beat the horse! Since this bet, other incredible challenges have been launched (plastic duck race on the river, ricochet contest and the famous "bog snorkelling" world championship), giving a second life to Llanwrtyd Wells. These events have helped to raise the profile of the village, which is set in an enchanting natural environment and offers excellent accommodation and restaurants.