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The Adventurous Guide to South Wales
Sian Lewis is an award-winning writer and the author of thegirloutdoors.com, a blog for anyone who loves adventures. Read on to see her must-do adventures and follow her travels at @sianannalewis.
Beaches, mountains, ancient woodland, Atlantic surf and wild swimming - South Wales packs some of Britain's best adventures into one gloriously compact corner of the country. From the sweeping sands of Gower to the waterfalls of Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) and the winding River Wye, this is a haven for hiking, camping, paddling and surfing.
The perfect place to stock up before you head off? McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend, where you can pick up everything you'll need for your adventure.
I'm Sian Anna Lewis and here's my adventurous guide to South Wales...
Adventure must-haves
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Camp above Three Cliffs Bay
If I had to choose one place to wake up in South Wales, it would be the campsite overlooking the iconic Three Cliffs Bay on Gower, surely one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. You can swim at Three Cliffs Bay at mid to low tide during the summer months but if you're unsure of the conditions, seek out the sheltered mermaid pool that appears beneath the cliffs at low tide, or follow the spectacular 5.5-mile stretch of the Wales Coast Path to Oxwich Bay for a more sheltered swim.
Warm up in the beach sauna at Oxwich Bay
A walk along the Wales Coast Path is made even better by ending at Oxwich Bay, where wood-fired Ty Sawna has become one of Gower's best post-adventure rituals. After a hike or sea swim, sink into the warmth of the cedar-lined sauna before dashing back into the waves to cool off.
Surf the waves at Rhossili
No South Wales adventure is complete without a visit to Rhossili, where miles of golden sand meet rolling Atlantic swell. Whether you're an experienced surfer or hiring a board for your first lesson, Rhossili is one of the best places in Wales to catch a wave. Secret tip: At low tide, follow the coast path around the headland towards Blue Pool Bay to discover the Blue Pool, a jewel-like tidal pool hidden among the rocks.
Hike beneath the waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons
The waterfalls of the western Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park) make for some of the most atmospheric walks in Wales. The famous Four Waterfalls Walk threads through ancient woodland where fern-filled gorges and tumbling cascades make every corner enchanted. The highlight is reaching Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind the rushing curtain of water.
Paddle the River Wye
Explore the peaceful waters of the River Wye by canoe or kayak. This is an easy-going adventure that swaps crowds for kingfishers, herons and wooded limestone cliffs. Whether you choose a short paddle or a full-day trip, renting a boat from Hay-on-Wye or Ross-on-Wye is a wonderfully slow way to experience South Wales' quieter side.
What to pack...
You'll need a few key bits of gear to get out-of-doors, but the good news is they don't have to be expensive – and you can pick up everything you need at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend before you go exploring.