The South Wales is one of the most stunning places in the UK, the perfect area for a nice walk or hike.
There’s a variety of routes and trails to choose from, so whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.
Here, I’ve put together a list of the 15 best walks in South Wales, from the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the epic Beacons Way.
No matter your experience level, you can find the perfect route for you.
So, let’s take a look at the 15 best walks in South Wales.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
You’ll love the stunning views of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – it’s an amazing way to explore the south of Wales!
Winding around the coast of the stunning region, the path is nearly 186 miles long and is full of beautiful sights and fascinating wildlife.
The path passes through a variety of stunning scenery, from beautiful woodlands to breathtaking beaches, offering something for everyone.
It also makes its way through small fishing villages and remote rural hamlets, giving you a chance to explore the history and culture of the region.
With plenty of rest stops and places to stay along the route, you can easily spend a few days walking the path and taking in its beauty.
Brecon Beacons
Experience the majestic beauty of the Brecon Beacons, with its towering hills, crystal-clear streams, and lush green valleys – you won’t regret it!
From the highest peak of Pen y Fan, with its magnificent views, to the stunningly beautiful waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons National Park, the Brecon Beacons is an incredible place to explore.
With its abundance of walking trails, you’ll be able to easily find a route that suits your level of fitness and experience. From leisurely strolls along the river banks to more challenging hikes, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely ramble or a demanding hike, the Brecon Beacons has a path for you.
With its breathtaking views, lush green valleys, and crystal-clear streams, it’s easy to see why the Brecon Beacons is one of the most popular walking spots in South Wales.
Take in the views, soak in the fresh air, and enjoy the peacefulness of the countryside – you won’t regret it!
Cwm Idwal
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Cwm Idwal, with its awe-inspiring mountain peaks and tranquil lakes, for an unforgettable getaway!
Located in the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, Cwm Idwal is a glacial valley that is situated at an altitude of over 1,000 feet.
This area is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views, crystal clear lakes, and unique geological features, such as the Idwal Slabs.
With its range of scenic trails, Cwm Idwal is the perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a longer hike.
There are a variety of trails to choose from, depending on your level of fitness and experience.
For a moderate trek, try the Cwm Idwal Trail, which takes you up to the lakeside and past some of the area’s most spectacular scenery.
For a more challenging hike, consider summiting the Glyderau and Carneddau mountains, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Either way, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views and an unforgettable experience.
The Gower Peninsula
Escape to the Gower Peninsula for an unforgettable journey of stunning beaches, stunning cliffs, and ancient castles. This hidden gem is located in South Wales and is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a full-blown camping trip.
There are plenty of activities to be enjoyed here, from cliff-top hikes to exploring the natural beauty of its golden-sand beaches. The Gower Peninsula is also home to some of Britain’s oldest castles, such as Oxwich Castle and Pennard Castle, which offer a fascinating insight into the area’s history. Visitors can also take a boat tour, take a walk along the coast, or visit the many secluded coves and bays.
Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or an adventurous experience, the Gower Peninsula is the perfect choice.
The Black Mountains
Discover the stunning beauty of the Black Mountains, a mountain range located in South Wales, for a memorable getaway.
Located in the Brecon Beacons National Park, the Black Mountains are the highest range in the entire region, with an elevation of 803m.
Hikers are treated to spectacular panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons as well as the neighbouring hills.
The Black Mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, including wild ponies, red kites, and foxes.
For a truly memorable experience, take a guided tour of the mountains and discover the many historical sites, including old bridges, ancient fortresses, and mysterious caves.
The Black Mountains offer a variety of trails, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes – so there’s something for everyone.
So, why not explore the breathtaking beauty of the Black Mountains and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Rhossili Bay
Experience Rhossili Bay, a stunningly picturesque bay located on the edge of the Gower Peninsula in southwest Wales.
One of Wales’ most iconic landscapes, Rhossili Bay is home to a stunning 3-mile long beach and the famous Worm’s Head promontory.
The beach on the bay is made up of golden sand and offers views of the rugged cliffs and the outlying islands.
The Worm’s Head is a rocky outcrop that juts out into the sea and is only accessible during low tide. It’s an incredible sight and a great spot for a cliff-top stroll.
The Rhossili Bay area is also a great spot for outdoor activities, such as surfing, swimming, and horseback riding.
Additionally, the area is home to a number of historic sites and monuments, including the remains of a 14th century shipwreck and a Bronze Age fort.
For a special experience, catch a sunset from the top of Rhossili Down, which offers stunning views of the bay and the nearby islands.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous excursion, Rhossili Bay has something for everyone.
The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean
Explore the breathtaking Wye Valley and Forest of Dean, two picturesque regions of England that are perfect for outdoor activities. Located in the southwest corner of England, they make up part of the border between England and Wales.
Some of the most stunning views of the Wye Valley can be seen from the Offa’s Dyke Path, a long-distance walking route that follows the line of an ancient earthwork border built by Offa, King of Mercia. This path also passes through the Forest of Dean, a large ancient woodland, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean are a great destination for walkers, offering an abundance of trails to explore. From easy strolls along the riverbanks to challenging climbs up the steep hills, there’s something for everyone.
There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching, with red kites, deer, otters, and badgers all making an appearance in the area. With its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or an adventurous hike.
The Vale of Neath
The Vale of Neath is a stunning area in south Wales, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush green valleys, and the River Neath. It’s a popular destination for visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful walk in nature, as it’s full of picturesque meadows, woodlands, and rivers.
The area is especially well-known for its abundance of waterfalls, with the highest being the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall, which stands at 240 feet tall. You can also take a walk around the Neath Abbey ruins to explore the area’s fascinating history.
The area is also home to the Brecon Beacons National Park, which is great for those looking for a longer walk.
For those looking to stay in the area, there are many camping sites available that provide stunning views and a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
The Vale of Neath is a great destination for those looking to explore the best of south Wales and take in its stunning scenery.
Wye Valley Viaduct
Take in the incredible views from the Wye Valley Viaduct, a 19th-century bridge spanning the River Wye. This iconic structure was designed by Brunel and Roach and was built between 1872 and 1876 with the purpose of connecting the Great Western Railway line between Chepstow and Newport. It’s a Grade II listed monument, with its 19 arches and 3 spans standing at a staggering height of over 60 meters.
I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the Viaduct. The walk is a spectacular experience, allowing you to take in the stunning views of the Wye Valley from the top of the bridge. There’s also a variety of wildlife, including buzzards and red kites, that can be spotted from the bridge. Be sure to take your camera along to capture this magnificent structure!
The River Taff Trail
Discover the breathtaking scenery of South Wales on the River Taff Trail, a 32-mile route that takes you on a journey through the valleys and hills of the region.
This beautiful walk begins in the capital city of Cardiff, snaking its way through the valleys of the Taff, Rhondda, Cynon, and Glamorgan, past the stunning Castell Coch, and ends in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Along the way you will encounter the stunningly picturesque towns and villages of Wales, as well as the country’s rich industrial heritage.
The River Taff Trail is suitable for all levels of walkers, with sections that are easy enough to complete in a day and others that require a more detailed exploration.
There are several points of interest and places of historical significance along the route, such as the ruins of Taff Castle and the Victorian bridge at Pontsticill.
You can also take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside and take a break in the quaint pubs and cafes dotted along the route.
The River Taff Trail is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the beauty of South Wales.
Cardigan Bay Coast Path
Experience the majestic beauty of Cardigan Bay Coast Path, a spectacular stretch of coastline that provides unbeatable views of the Welsh landscape.
Stretching from Cardigan to the Teifi Estuary, this 11-mile coastal path is one of Wales’ most beautiful walks.
The trail hugs the coastline, providing stunning views of the rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and blue-green waters of Cardigan Bay.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and porpoises.
There are also plenty of coves and beaches to explore, including the infamous Shell Island.
As you travel along the path, you’ll also find plenty of historic sites and landmarks.
From ancient fortresses to ruined chapels, the Bay Coast Path is an ideal spot to explore the area’s rich history.
With its breathtaking views and vast array of activities, the Cardigan Bay Coast Path is a must-see destination for any nature lover.
The Elan Valley
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Elan Valley, a stunning area located in Mid-Wales.
This region is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes in the UK, with rolling hills, lush green meadows, and winding rivers.
The Elan Valley offers plenty of trails to explore, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
You can take in the gorgeous views from the Elan Valley reservoir, or explore the historic Elan Valley Railway.
There are also plenty of opportunities to get close to nature, with a variety of walking paths and nature trails.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, the Elan Valley is sure to satisfy your needs.
So why not take a trip to the Elan Valley and explore all that this stunning area has to offer?
The Usk Valley
Soak up the stunning beauty of the Usk Valley, located in the south of Wales. With its verdant hills, rolling meadows, and winding rivers, this area is sure to provide a peaceful and tranquil escape.
Explore the abundance of wildlife, take in majestic views, and escape to nature with a variety of walking paths and nature trails. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, the Usk Valley has something to offer.
Enjoy a pleasant walk around the picturesque village of Llanfrynach, breathe in the fresh air of the Beacons and Brecon Canal, or go on a challenging hike to the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain.
There are also plenty of walking routes along the banks of the River Usk, with plenty of opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. Whatever your preference, the Usk Valley provides an ideal destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and enjoyable walk in South Wales.
The Valleys Way
Discover the Valleys Way, a scenic route through Wales that takes you through the lush countryside of the Usk Valley and beyond.
From the beautiful rolling hills of Monmouthshire to the rugged mountains of Blaenavon, this path offers stunning views of the Welsh countryside.
Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque towns and villages, each with its own unique character.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Valleys Way has something for everyone.
From the Brecon Beacons to the Black Mountains, the Valleys Way is a great way to experience the best of South Wales.
Along the route, you’ll come across plenty of attractions, including historic sites, nature reserves, and wildlife.
There are plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views and soak up the unique atmosphere of the Welsh hills.
If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, the Valleys Way is the perfect place to start.
The Beacons Way
Experience the beauty of South Wales with the Beacons Way – a picturesque route that takes you through the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons and beyond.
Stretching for over 100 miles, this popular long-distance walk takes you on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region.
Explore ancient woodlands, rolling countryside, and rugged mountains as you make your way through the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains, and Monmouthshire.
Along the way, you’ll get to discover charming villages, castles, rivers, and reservoirs.
The Beacons Way is divided into eight sections, each of which can be completed in one or two days.
The route starts in Abergavenny and finishes in Chepstow, with the option of continuing onto the Severn Estuary if desired.
Along the way, you’ll come across a variety of terrain, including some challenging climbs and descents.
There are plenty of accommodation options available, including hotels, campsites, and B&Bs, allowing you to make the most of your journey.
Conclusion
I’ve explored some of the best walks in south Wales, and I can say without a doubt that it’s an incredible place for adventurers.
From the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the majestic Black Mountains, South Wales is a paradise for walkers of all skill levels.
For those looking for a challenge, the Elan Valley and Valleys Way are must-dos.
And if you just want a peaceful stroll, the Gower Peninsula and Cwm Idwal are perfect.
With so much to explore, South Wales is a great place to go for a wander. So gather your friends, grab your walking boots, and explore the beauty of South Wales.