A SCENIC route around Llandegfedd Reservoir will open to the public from today.

The six-and-a-half-mile circular trail takes in woodland, pasture, a golf course, conservation area and a small section of road on the reservoir’s dam.

Walkers can expect to find an abundance of wildlife, including orchids and wildfowl during the estimated three-and-a-half-hour walk.

The Llandegfedd Reservoir Trail has taken two years to come to fruition and is a joint between Llanbadoc Community Council, Monmouthshire council which has funded the project and Welsh Water, which gave permission for the trail to pass through some of its land.

Community Councillor, John Wright said the community council’s pathcare group has worked hard to clear parts of the trail and put up finger posts.

He said: “It’s a lovely amenity for the area and boasts terrific views over the reservoir.”

“Walkers don’t have to walk the whole route they can do parts of it as the trail links into other public footpaths,” he added.

It is fully open for walkers from April 1, except for a section passing through the wildfowl conservation area at the north east corner of the reservoir which will be closed during the winter.

Dogs on leads are allowed and the visitor centre will be open for refreshments during daylight hours.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Principal Countryside Access Officer, Ruth Rourke said: “There has been demand in the past for a walk around the reservoir and I am glad that this opportunity is now available to the public.”

“I therefore look forward to the opening and pay tribute to those involved in setting up the route, particularly the pathcare group which I am sure will lead an interesting and enjoyable walk.”

An inaugural walk, led by the Llanbadoc Community Council pathcare group, will take place this morning, leaving from the main car park near the new visitor centre on the Welsh Water site at 10am. Leaflets highlighting the wildlife to look out for will be handed out. Visit www.llanbadoc.org