Wales in Style is an online guide to the treasures that make Wales a truly memorable place to visit.
Tags: Activities, Adventure, family fun, Hiking, Walking, Walks
Glamorgan Heritage Coastline
Less than 30 minutes from Cardiff is 14 miles of beautiful coastal path stretching from the seaside town of Porthcawl to Aberthaw. The route is home to a number of heritage sights and conservation areas, including Ogmore Castle and the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes, where a thriving collection of flowers and plant life can be found.
STAY: The Great House in Bridgend
Wye Valley – Abergavenny to Little Skirrid
The Wye Valley is full of forests and castles and starting in the town of Abergavenny, this 3.4 mile route will take you across Monmouthshire’s countryside with views of the Black Mountains. Once you reach the peak of Skirrid Fawr you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of southeast Wales and central England. Make sure you visit the Skirrid Mountain Inn while you’re there – said to be Wales’ oldest inn and steeped in spooky tales of legend and myth.
STAY: Llansantfraed Court
Pen-y-Fan, Brecon Beacons
Just 45 minutes drive from Wales’ capital sits the highest peak in the south of Great Britain, Pen-y-Fan. Although climbing it might sound like a daunting prospect, a moderate stroll up the mountain’s wide and well-paved pathway only takes around 90 minutes from The Storey Arms car park on the A470 route towards Brecon. On a clear day, the summit views over South and Mid Wales are simply breath-taking.
STAY: Gliffaes Country House Hotel
Cwm Clydach, Swansea
When you think of Swansea and the Gower, you might immediately imagine the beautiful sandy coastline, but there’s actually much to offer beyond the coast and into the surrounding unspoilt countryside. Cwm Clydach is a circular walk of nine miles in total alongside the Lower Clydach River, but visiting walkers can choose any portion of the route, all of which provides clear views of the Brecon Beacons.
STAY: Fairyhill Hotel
Llanerch Vineyard, Hensol
Take a peaceful stroll through the vines of a working vineyard just outside Cardiff. This sheltered spot is only minutes from the M4, but the surrounding woodland blocks off all the disturbances of urban life, and offers visitors a real tranquil escape. Guests at the vineyard can try a taste of the very local wine, and enjoy top quality food at the hotel’s renowned bistro.