In the Valleys of Southern Wales, famous the world over for their pioneering role in the industrial revolution, there are a wealth of outdoor pursuits, stunning scenery and cultural and historical attractions.
Whilst the mines and tips that once scarred this area are long gone their legacy and memory remain. Reminders of the past are evident at the Rhondda Heritage Park at Trehafod near Pontypridd where visitors can take a tour of the pit in the company of an ex-miner. Alternatively, a couple of Valleys to the east is the award winning Big Pit National Coal Museum at Blaenavon. Don your lamps and helmets and take the cage to the pit bottom to discover what life was like underground.
Coal was not the only thriving industry in Southern Wales in years gone by. Just down the road from Big Pit is the remains of Blaenavon Ironworks. Such is the historic importance of the town of Blaenavon it is ranked alongside the Pyramids of Giza and the Taj Mahal as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. At Merthyr Tydfil, Cyfarthfa Castle is an impressive museum telling the story of the town that was once the biggest iron producer in the world. At the time the castle belonged to the unscrupulous ironmaster William Crawshay who, from the castles position on the hillside, would look out on his iron empire and the squalid settlements of those who used to work there.
For those who like to get out and about the Valleys offer some of the best walking in the whole of Southern Wales. Each trail will reveal some extraordinary scenery and don’t worry if you’re not an experienced walker; there are routes that suit all ages and levels of fitness. For those who prefer two wheels to two feet, the are numerous cycle tracks crisscrossing the region. At Cwmcarn, high in the hills above the Rhymney Valley, the new Mountain Biking tracks are considered by experts as being amongst the best in the world.
If the great outdoors is not your cup of tea, then how about hitting the shops. One of the Valley’s best-kept secrets is the excellent Festival Park shopping village at Ebbw Vale. Set in the parkland that was once home to the Garden Festival of Wales, the centre boasts over 40 shops selling the latest fashions plus a craft village, garden centre and even an owl sanctuary.
Visit the Wisdom and Walks Website for more information or download a brochure
