From romantic mini breaks to active family holidays in South Wales

West of the Bristol Channel, South Wales enjoys a diverse range of urban and rural entertainment for travellers and tourists.  It contains the Welsh capital of Cardiff with the juxtaposing styles of historic Cardiff Castle as well as the striking Wales Millennium Centre arts complex.  Meanwhile, cyclists and adventurers can enjoy jaunts in the Brecon Beacons National Park close by, or venture to the area’s spectacular beaches which have a reputation for their beauty.

The coastal and rural parts of South Wales are a joy for those looking for an active holiday.  Just 30 minutes from Cardiff and Porthcawl is a favourite amongst both professional and amateur surfers, Rest Bay is great for intermediate surfers and beginners can procure lessons to get in on the fun as well.

For mountain bikers, the valleys are an adventure unto themselves.  They are rich with the area’s industrial heritage as well as beauty; you can even visit a real coal mine in World Heritage listed Blaenavon.  The Wye Valley is of particular fame; an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you can explore on foot, horseback or by kayak and take in the “steep woods, lofty cliffs and green pastoral landscape” that so inspired William Wordsworth and other poets and artists including JMW Turner .

Of course, South Wales is also known for its excellent local produce, gourmet restaurants and hospitality, epitomised in the areas hotels and B&Bs.  From country house hotels like The Grove at Narbeth to chic city abodes like Jolyon’s at No.10, it is a charming part of the world for romantic mini breaks, family holidays and solo getaways.