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Planning a Hiking Trip to South Wales?
Here's @lifeinlenny's favourite adventure itinerary and must-have kit to pack.
If you've followed our adventures for a while, you'll know we're always searching for our next escape. Whether it's a weekend by the coast, chasing waterfalls in the mountains or heading off on a European road trip in our campervan, we're happiest when we're exploring somewhere new.
We're Alex and Jo, along with our cockapoo Barney, and together we document our travels on our social media channels, Life In Lenny.
South Wales remains one of our favourite UK destinations. It offers incredible hiking, stunning waterfalls, dramatic coastline and some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain. If you're planning a trip this summer, here's exactly how we'd spend a weekend exploring the region, along with the essential kit we'd pack.
First Stop: Getting Adventure Ready
Before any adventure, we always make sure we've got everything we need for the trip ahead.
A recent stop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend gave us the perfect opportunity to pick up a few last-minute essentials before heading deeper into South Wales. Whether it's a waterproof jacket, an extra layer or comfortable walking footwear, there's always something we've forgotten.
It's also a great place to grab a coffee, stretch your legs and break up the journey before setting off into the Welsh countryside.
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Day One: Four Waterfalls Walk
If we could only recommend one walk in South Wales, it would be the Four Waterfalls Walk in Waterfall Country.
This beautiful route winds through woodland and passes several spectacular waterfalls along the way. The highlight is Sgwd yr Eira, where you can actually walk behind the waterfall itself.
It's one of those places that feels almost magical, with rushing water, moss-covered rocks and incredible scenery around every corner.
We'd recommend allowing at least three hours to fully enjoy the route and take plenty of photos along the way.
If you're travelling with a dog, Barney absolutely loves this walk, although muddy paws are almost guaranteed!
Day Two: Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve
Before heading home, we'd make time for a visit to Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve, one of South Wales' most underrated outdoor destinations.
Located just a short drive from Bridgend, the reserve is home to an incredible network of walking trails that weave through ancient woodland, sand dunes and open grassland. The star attraction is the vast dune system, which includes Big Dipper, one of the highest sand dunes in the UK.
From the top, you're rewarded with fantastic views across the surrounding countryside and coastline, making it a brilliant spot for photography or simply taking in the scenery.
What we love most about Merthyr Mawr is how varied it feels. One minute you're walking through peaceful woodland and the next you're crossing rolling dunes that feel more like a desert than South Wales.
Day Three: The Gower Peninsula & Worm's Head
After a day spent exploring waterfalls, we'd head west towards one of our favourite coastal destinations in Wales – the Gower Peninsula.
The scenery here is completely different, with dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches and spectacular sea views. One of our favourite spots is Worm's Head, overlooking the famous Rhossili Bay.
The clifftop walk offers incredible views across the coastline, and Rhossili Bay itself is widely regarded as one of the UK's most beautiful beaches.
We've visited several times in Lenny and it never disappoints. Whether you're walking the coastal paths, taking photographs or simply enjoying the view, it's the perfect place to slow down and appreciate the Welsh coastline.
It's also fantastic for dog owners, with plenty of open space for four-legged adventurers like Barney.
It's another place Barney absolutely loves, with plenty of space to explore and endless new scents to investigate.
The Essential Kit We'd Always Pack
After years of travelling and hiking together, we've learned that having the right gear can make all the difference.
What we love most about South Wales is the variety it offers.
In a single weekend, you can walk behind waterfalls, explore ancient woodland, climb towering sand dunes and enjoy some of the most spectacular coastline in the UK.
Whether you're travelling by campervan, planning a family getaway or bringing your dog along for the adventure, South Wales has something for everyone.
And with a quick stop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend before you set off, you'll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
Now all that's left to do is lace up your walking boots, pack the car and start exploring.