Llandysul
Gareth Bryant
OS Map 146 Grid Reference SN415403
Nearby Postcode SA44 4AA
The slalom course at Llandysul is located on the Afon or River Teifi. The slalom course stretches from the bridge which links Pont Tyweli with Llandysul, down to the final rapid known as The Quarry. Access can be gained to the slalom course either on the opposite bank to the canoe centre or by the lake for a warm up before you reach the start of the course. The white water on the slalom course is graded at a 2/3 depending on the water height. There are over 40 gates permanently placed on the slalom course, so the start and finish of races can vary depending on the river height and division of the race. For information on using the slalom course information contact Llandysul Paddlers at bpaddlers@aol.com or call the canoe centre at 01559 363209.
The Rapids
Boat Breaker – a grade 2/3 rapid which is where the water is pushed into the narrowest part of the river, causing the river to be very quick and form a wave train at high water, with tight fast eddies which are good for upstream gates. At very low levels the river gets very skinny, so it becomes hard to get down in a slalom boat without breaking it - giving it its name.
Spar Falls – a smaller rapid, but the river is still quick-paced and is wider so here is an ideal place to set a stagger move. At high water a small wave forms at the top of the rapid which can be good for an upstream-on-a-wave move.
The Quarry – the largest rapid on the slalom course, with very fast water and a number of waves which are good for crosses. There are also very quick eddies that can test paddlers, especially at the lower divisions. The rapid is at best during medium water heights as at high levels it does become washed out.
Llandysul Paddlers Centre Accommodation
At the Llandysul Paddlers centre we have a bunk house with 34 beds that can be booked per bed or for sole use. The centre also has a lounge area, showers and a fully-equipped kitchen, making it an ideal place for a club trip. For further information email bpaddlers@aol.com or call 01559363209. The website is llandysul-paddlers.org.uk
Shop
We also have a shop on site called Outdoor Kit 4 U. If you are looking for any paddling or outdoor kit just email the shop on Ok4ultd@aol.com or call them on 01559363128. The website is http://www.outdoorkit4u.co.uk
Directions
From the end of the M4 follow the A48 to Carmarthen. At Carmarthen head for Lampeter then follow signs for Pencader and Llandysul - Approximately 15 miles. The centre is Yellow and Green and is next to the bridge in the village.
If you are travelling from North Wales then you will have a few options. One of these is following the coast road down to Aberystwyth and onto Synod Inn, where you will then have to head inland following signs to Llandysul.
Llandysul Paddlers Slalom Course Map
JS Grading: B / C
B: Slightly moving water, giving some eddy-lines, but not enough to worry paddlers; and with at the most one small drop which paddlers simply have to run down.
C: Faster current, sharper eddy-lines, some drops that can be intimidating, possible to set crosses on small waves, often rocky.
Even courses that are usually easy can become dangerous in exceptional high water conditions. If in doubt, seek advice or stay off the water.