Scenic Walks in South Wales You Need to Try
Walking in Wales tops the list of must-do activities for all UK-based wanderers. Whether you’re a solo hiker keen to go the distance, or you’re just after an easy family ramble, we’ve rounded up the best walking trails in the country for you to explore. So, lace up your boots and discover some of the most scenic walks in South Wales.
Penmaen to Three Cliffs Bay, the Gower
With long stretches of gorgeous sandy beach, the Penmaen to Three Cliffs Bay walk is superb for a sunny day. The walking grade is classified as easy and it’s a circular trail, starting and finishing at the green by Penmaen Church. Over the 4km trail, you’ll take in stepping stones, grassy slopes, rocky coastal paths and beautiful beaches.
The Golden Road, Preseli Hills
Head along this Neolithic super-highway and experience a sense of history and folklore on the gently undulating Golden Road route. If the weather’s right, you’ll be able to see up to Cardigan Bay and as far west as Ireland. Begin the 7-mile walk at Bwlch Gwynt, then follow the pre-historic road through wild moorland and you find yourself in the land of Welsh legends.
Neuadd Valley Horseshoe Ridge Walk, Brecon Beacons
Not for the faint of heart, this 10-mile horseshoe ridge walk will take around 5 to 6 hours. Be sure to bring a map and compass, as well as suitable wet-weather gear if necessary. On a good day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the Brecon Beacons on this challenging uphill trail reaching Pen y Fan. As the highest point in the southern UK, this viewpoint makes this one of the most scenic walks in South Wales!
Millennium Coastal Path, Llanelli
Head out for as long as you like on the Millennium coastal path – an easily accessible mostly flat route along the superb Carmarthenshire coast. If you enjoy nature walks, take in the wildlife at the Wetlands Centre, keeping your eyes peeled for their flock of pink flamingos. Or, trying spotting the shipwrecks over the 8 miles of Cefn Sidan Beach. Cycle hire is available if you’re keen to hit the trail on wheels, and the route is divided into small self-contained sections which make it perfect for families.
Rhosili and South Gower Coastal Walk
Follow the National Trust’s one-mile Rhosili and South Gower circular walk along one of Wales’ best beaches and take in the majesty of the sweeping sand of Rhosili beach. The terrain slopes gently, but there is a disabled access track and there aren’t any stiles. Start with your back to the Rhosili bus stop and head right along the road to begin your journey along one of the most scenic nature walks in South Wales!
Ogmore by Sea circular route
For a longer wander along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, the circular walk around Ogmore by Sea will take you past the area’s layered cliffs for which it’s famed. Admire the ruins of Dunraven Castle and explore the rockpools at Dunraven Bay. There’s a shorter route of 4 miles or a longer one of 8, just be aware that although generally flat this scenic walk has some steeper sections and gradual climbs too.
Want to explore a different area? Browse our favourite waterfall walks in the Brecon Beacons or the best wildlife walks in Anglesey on our blog.
