Luxury dog-friendly hotels in Powys, United Kingdom

It’s no wonder Powys has been called the backbone of Wales, peppered as it is with a wealth of Welsh wonders – mirror-smooth lakes, ancient castles and charming Victorian market towns. From Snowdonia in the north to the Brecon Beacons in the south, this postcard-pretty expanse of unspoilt countryside stretches along the border with England. Walkers, paragliders and reservoir-spotters head to the Elan Valley, a sprawling estate showcasing striking examples of Victorian dam-building ingenuity. In Welshpool, Powis Castle’s mediaeval turrets tower over beautiful yew-shaded gardens. From here, hop on the light railway to Llanfair, a steam-pulled journey that will take you along the River Banwy – look out for deer, hawks and playful otters along the way.