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So many things to do, so many places to play
Take a deep breath. You’ll need to if you want to plunge into the Valleys’ activity scene. It’s amazing what you can Go Do in this part of Wales. There’s a huge choice of activities on offer, mirroring a landscape that changes by the mile. The valleys themselves are just the start of it all. There are hills and mountains too. And lakes and rivers, woods and forests, country parks and countryside centres. We’ve already covered walking. Now it’s the turn for fishing and golfing, abseiling and climbing, horse riding and running, cycling and mountain biking. It’s all go.
All in One
 Get active in dedicated centres like Parc Bryn Bach near Tredegar. There was a coal mine here once, not that you’d know it now. Bryn Bach, an exhilarating mix of woodland, grassland and lake, is buzzing with activity. Mountain biking, kayaking, archery, climbing, quad biking, BMXing, golfing and gorge walking these are just some of the things you can get up to in and around the park. And if it’s peace and quiet you’re after simply take a seat outside the visitor centre for grandstand views of the lake and watch the world go by. You can even stay the night in a bunkhouse or pitch your tent the camping site.
Who needs the Eiger when you can scale one of Europe’s biggest climbing walls at the Welsh International Climbing Centre in the Taff Bargoed Millennium Park. The centre is also home to Britain’s first artificial cave complex, a Tardislike maze of passageways and chambers. They take their activities seriously here - as well as climbing and caving you can go bouldering or hanging from high ropes, quad biking or kayaking.
www.indoorclimbingwalls.co.uk
The Taff on Two Wheels
The River Taff cuts through the heart of the Valleys, flowing alongside historic towns like Merthyr Tydfil and Pontypridd. It’s easy to follow its journey from mountains to the sea on the Taff Trail, a 55-mile waymarked route specially designed for cyclists - and walkers. It is a pedal through history as well as superb scenery, following ghostly old railway lines up, up and away into the Brecon Beacons.
What’s the Catch?
 A pretty good one if you’re a fishing enthusiast. There’s a lot of water in the Valleys with over 35 rivers, lakes, streams, canals and ponds to fish from. So bring your rod and come fishing for salmon and trout, carp and bream. The 36-acre lake at Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar is a local favourite. No big surprise really. Its monster carp might take the bait, but they can hardly be described as bite-sized. At the Tri Nant Trout Farm, Llantrisant, there are no less that four lakes, covering 5 acres, stocked daily with rainbow trout. When you’ve reeled them in you can enjoy a pint and a meal at The Countryman Inn overlooking the lakes.
Greens for Go
 All eyes will be on the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport in 2010 when the Ryder Cup comes to town. Being only a short drive away already the ripple effect of this massive golfing competition is being felt in the Valleys, where previously undiscovered golf courses are welcoming more and more visitors. It’s a winning Welsh formula - ‘golf as it should be’. The genuine spirit of the game is alive and well in the Valleys, where you play at your own pace on unhurried courses. And because you’re in the Valleys it goes without saying that the hospitality is as generous as the views from its mountain top courses. We’re thinking of places like the Caerphilly and Castell Heights Golf Clubs (just half-an-hour from the Celtic Manor), and the lofty Morlais Castle Golf Club, Merthyr Tydfil, where you can hit your ball into the Brecon Beacons National Park. Golfing breaks can be found at www.valleystourism.com and www.greensofsouthernwales.com
Golfing breaks are available at an unbeatable value. Offers include 3 rounds of golf and 2 nights of accommodation from as little as £99 per person. View the leaflet for information.  Golfing Breaks Leaflet (245.08 kB)
Mountain Biking’s a Blast
The Valleys were designed for this up-and-down adrenaline-fuelled pastime. Mountain biking is big news everywhere in Wales. In the Cwmcarn Forest, for example, you’ll find the thrill-a-minute 10-mile Twrch Trail (named after a legendary beast) along with a testing downhill track.
The Celtic Trail - Route 64 of the cycle network
 The disused railways, canals and tramways from the Valleys’ industrial past are being transformed into a cycle network of traffic free green corridors. The Celtic Trail National Cycle Network (NCN) routes 4 & 47 run through the heart of the Valleys. Follow the largely traffic free route NCN 47 from Newport along the canal to Cross Keys before crossing the impressive Hengoed Viaduct. Looking for a challenge then take the High Level Route option NCN 47 to Neath, travelling through the forests with spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons. Ideal for a short break the Taff Trail NCN route 8 connects Cardiff to Brecon via Merthyr Tydfil and the Brecon Beacons. For a great day out visit Big Pit which forms part of the World Heritage Site at Blaenavon along NCN 46 following the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal from Newport. There are traffic free routes at several country parks in the Valleys – Afan Forest Park, Garwnant Forest Park, Parc Bryn Bach, Parc Penallta, Parc Sirhowy, Parc Cwm Darran, Taff Bargoed and Dare Valley County Park, ideal for a family day out. Get a copy of Sustrans traffic free guide available from Tourist Information Centres.
Horsepower
And it’s the same when it comes to horse riding and pony trekking. The hills are laced with a network of bridleways like the Furlong Wood Ride, three linking loops of around 12 miles taking in cool green forests and Blaenavon’s World Heritage moors and mountains.
Boiling Point
The 18th-century long-distance runner Gûto Nyth Bran reputedly ran an amazing distance from his home near Pontypridd in the time it took to boil a kettle of water. His achievements are commemorated each year at the Nos Galan (New Year’s Eve) 3 mile road race in Mountain Ash. Wrap up and watch the race - or, better still, take part in this or one of the many other organised running events held throughout the year.
www.nosgalan.co.uk
For Speed Enthusiasts
The Practice your skiing at the 230m Pontypool ski centre, race around the G-Force Karting Centre at amazing speeds or simply have some great fun experiencing the countryside on quad bikes at the Taff Valleys Quad Bike Centre.
Shopping with a Difference
If you like to combine exercise with a bit of retail therapy, a visit to the Festival Shopping Centre in Ebbw Vale is a must. Set in 70 acres of parkland, you’ll find bargains galore with 50% off high street prices. Not only does the centre provide excellent shopping but also offers picturesque views. ( http://www.festivalshopping.co.uk/) You can also ‘shop until you drop’ at any of the many excellent town shopping centres dotted throughout the Valleys. Shopping leaflets are available from Tourist Information Centres.
View some of the many activities on offer throughout the region. To find out more click on the activities below which are listed alpabetically by the nearest town.
Activities
Ynys Hywel, Activity Centre, Blackwood
Located in the beautiful 1000 acre Sirhowy Valley Country Park, Ynys Hywel Activity Centre is ideally situated for a wide range of adventure activities, including abseiling, canoeing, mountain biking, rock climbing, orienteering and hill walking for a 1/2 or full day.
T: +44 (0)1495 200113
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W: http://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/visiting/activities/ynyshywelactivitycentre.htm
South Wales 2000 Shooting Ground
Clay target shooting for beginners or experts, tuition, practice and competitions. Also Stag and Hen parties and corporate events.
Open Tuesday to Sunday
10 am to dusk
Daily but closed Mondays
For more information, please telephone us or visit our website
T: +44 (0)1495 201182
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W: http://www.southwales.com/
Blaenavon World Heritage Site
In December 2000 UNESCO inscribed the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape as a World Heritage Site.
Today, Blaenavon proudly tells the story of her past in a variety of ways. Come and explore.
T: +44 (0)1495 792615
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W: http://www.world-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk/
Greenmeadow Community Farm
Greenmeadow Community Farm is open to visitors of all ages as well as schools and offers a hands-on, educational experience that is both interesting and fun. The farm has a wide variety of animals including sheep, goats, cattle, tortoises, deer and chickens. Visitors can see the cows being milked and have a go at bottle feeding a lamb.
T: +44 (0)1633 647662
W: http://www.visittorfaen.co.uk/
Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre
Dol y Gaer is an outdoor centre set on the southern fringe of the National Park near the edge of Pontsticill Reservoir. It offers courses in sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, caving, rock-climbing, equipment hire, camp-site and mountaineering to groups on a residential or non-residential visit.
T: +44 (0)1685 721751
W: http://www.dolygaer.com/
Gwent Adventures
Activity centre specialising in the teaching of sailing, windsurfing and canoeing. Equipment also available for hire.
During school holidays courses are run for children, offering sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and raft building.
Team building activities for groups and corporate bodies also offered.
Recognised RYA teaching establishment. Also AALA licensed.
T: +44 (0)1291 673002
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W: http://www.gwent-adventures.co.uk/
Pontypool Ski Slope
Pontypool Ski Centre is set in the heart of Pontypool Park within easy walking distance of Pontypool Active Living Centre.
The centre boasts a 230 metre main slope, a novice/beginners area, a Puma ski lift, Briton ski lift, sprinkler system and mogul run.
The Ski School offers instruction for all standards of skiing and snowboarding from the novice to the expert.
T: +44 (0)1495 756955
W: http://www.torfaen.gov.uk/en/leisure/property.php/mid=1683%7Esect
Taff Valley Quad Bike & Activity Centre
Fun for all the family, at a well established, family run activity centre with over 15 years experience of providing adventure activities. Enjoy an exciting new way to explore the Welsh countryside. with Quad Bike treks around a 360 acre working hill farm, with views of the valleys below.
Start off on a practice circuit before heading over fields, through woodlands and over bumpy tracks with experienced instructors, who will take you on a route to suite your ability. Dedicated children's circuit for the 7-11yo's. Also on site, try your aim at Archery & Clay Pigeon Shooting, with qualified coaches from local clubs.
Gorge Walking days held up in the Brecon Beacons National Park, which involves getting very wet! Kit out in wetsuits, helmets, buoyancy aids and into the river you go, climb up waterfalls, plunge pools, scramble over rocks etc, for an exhilarating day out. Suitable for families, stag & hen groups, large and small groups, corporate teambuilding, youth groups, schools, colleges etc. We can arrange Activity Days or Activity Breaks, Motivational Courses, and we specialise in youngsters with challenging behaviour and/or learning difficulties. We link with other activity providers and different types of accommodation to arrange short breaks, which you can mix and match from a long list of activities in the area.
Special Offer:
10% Discount for First Time Family Groups (not visited before)
For 1hr Quad Bike trek
Based on a Family of at least 3 people: 1 lady, 1 gent and 1 under 16year old
Offer valid until 31st March 2008
Must quote Wisdom & Walks
T: +44 (0)29 2083 1658
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W: http://www.adventurewales.co.uk/
Parc Bryn Bach Activity Centre
Hosting a wide range of outdoor activities to suit all abilities and interests. Visit the below website for more information about the new activities the park provides.
T: +44 (0)1495 711816
W: http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/5807.asp
Welsh International Climbing Centre
A fun, exciting and affordable place to come for a day out, whether you are a family or individual looking for an adventurous day out.
Suitable for all ages and the perfect chance to meet new people and make friends in a warm and relaxing environment. The centre offers people the chance to take up a new sport.
Special Offer - 15% off climbing entry (valid from May to August 2008)
and 10% off introduction to Indoor Climbing Coure (valid from May to August 2008)
T: +44 (0)1443 710749
W: http://www.indoorclimbingwalls.co.uk/
Daerwonno
Outdoor activity centre offering a wide range of pursuits for all abilities.
T: +44 (0)1443 790768
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W: http://www.daerwynno.org/
Taff Trail
The Taff Trail is a multi-purpose route between the Cardiff waterfront at Cardiff Bay in the South and the Market Town of Brecon in the North. 55 miles (88km) in length, it passes close to Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil and through a wide variety of urban and suburban landscapes of those towns and the open moorland of the Brecon Beacons.
There are also many "green fingers" where the Taff Trail itself appears to bring the countryside into the town. The area is also rich in industrial archeology.
T: +44 (0)1685 883880
W: http://www.tafftrail.org.uk/
Cwmcarn Forest Drive
Do you dream about riding the perfect piece of single track? Twisting through a story book wonderland, the light filtering through the trees as your bum and legs beg for forgiveness, before a faultless transition into a smooth flowing decent.
This trail has it all, testing climbs, swooping descents and demanding technical sections. In 15.5km of almost pure single track through a landscape once scarred by coal mining now lives one of Wales' hidden gems.
The trails can be ridden all year. For details of local day and evening rides as well as volunteer trail building sessions at Cwmcarn please contact the local club which is based at the visitors centre.
Try out the new down hill track for the more experienced rider. Downhill lift pass available at a charge.
T: +44 (0)1495 272001
W: http://www.visitcaerphilly.com/
Celtic Trail
A planned route due to be fully completed in March 2008 following the historic route of the Penydarren Locomotive.
The Trevithick Trail is an important part of Merthyr's industrial heritage. The walking and cycling path which follows this historic tramway is severed by the fast A4060 Mountain Hare road. Connect2 will build a bridge to create a traffic–free route to connect the residential areas of Merthyr Tydfil to Pentrebach railway station and communities further south. It also provides links to local supermarkets and workplaces and provides an attractive largely level route into the centre of Merthyr and links to the Taff Trail.
T: +44 (0)1685 725227
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From the Brecon Beacons to the M4, the Welsh valleys offer a diverse mix of landscapes, all waiting to be explored. The Loops & Links trails have been designed for those that want to see the most that this culturally and environmentally rich area has to offer.
No matter what your preferred mode of transport, be it walking, mountain biking, or horse riding, the Loops & Links trails have something to offer all abilities. If you fancy a gentle stroll amid the beautiful nature in one of the many reserves or heritage sites, or want to push your endurance to its limits there will be something here to tempt you.
The trails have been designed to be accessed quickly and easily from one of the major transport hubs, such as a train station, and are either circular in fashion, or finish at another station, from where it is only a short ride back to the start.
W: http://www.loopsandlinks.co.uk
Discover the countryside of Torfaen by using the Torfaen Leisure Route (National Cycle Network, Route 46). This route provides a totally traffic-free cycling and walking experience.
The southern end of Route 46 links with NCN Route 47, which is close to Newport railway and bus stations. Running the length of the County Borough of Torfaen, from Cwmbran in the south to Blaenavon in the north, passing through Pontypool.
Covering approximately 18 miles, the route has been designed for the enjoyment of cyclists and walkers, and in parts, horse-riders, hence it's name the 'Torfaen Leisure Route'.
T: +44 (0)1495 792615 or (0)845 113 0065
W: http://www.countryside.torfaen.gov.uk
or http://www.nationalcyclenetwork.org.uk
Parc Bryn Bach is conveniently situated just off the A465 in the Heart of the South Wales Valleys, set in 340 acres of mixed grass and woodland and has a 36-acre lake as its focal point.
The Park offers something for all, whether you are strolling or cycling around the lake, having a picnic or barbeque with the family or participating in the many adventure activities available at the Park.
There is also a recent addition of a closed circuit cycling track with more cycling initiatives planned.
The Park is ideally situated on the doorstep of the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains and the Visitors Centre and Bunkhouse accommodation offers an ideal base for cyclists and walkers to explore the rich heritage, beautiful countryside and wildlife it offers.
T: +44 (0)1495 711816
W: http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/5807.asp
The Cwmbran Angling Association provides angling for the experienced and inexperienced angler, at reasonable prices. Cwmbran's Afon Llwydd River fishery for quality trout and, the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal and Llantarnam Ponds fisheries provide good coarse angling.
T: +44 (0)1633 874472
It is also worth trying our River Monnow fishery for quality coarse fishing at Osbaston Monmouth.
Membership tickets from:
Cwmbran Pet Stores & Angling Supplies Tel: 01633 483051
Cwmbran Angling T: 01633 868890
Parc Bryn Bach is conveniently situated just off the A465 in the Heart of the South Wales Valleys, set in 340 acres of mixed grass and woodland and has a 36-acre lake as its focal point.
Visit the website below to find out more information about fishing and fishing clubs in Parc Bryn Bach.
T: +44 (0)1495 711816
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W: http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/5807.asp
Golfing breaks are available at an unbeatable value. Offers include 3 rounds of golf and 2 nights of accommodation from as little as £99 per person. View the leaflet for information. Golfing Breaks Leaflet (245.08 kB)
Founded in 1921, Aberdare Golf Course is a very interesting and challenging course to play with magnificent views out over the valleys.
Special Offer:
2 for 1 golf deal available at Aberdare and Mountain Ash Golf Clubs go to www.valleystourism.com/offers
Plus 20% off a round of glof at Aberdare Golf Club.
T: +44 (0)1685 872797
W: http://www.aberdaregolfclub.co.uk
The Bryn Meadows Golf Course, established in 1973, offers mature landscapes providing an enjoyable challenge to both low and high handicappers alike. It provides the ideal venue for a round with friends as well as being suitable for all levels of corporate events.
T: +44 (0)1495 225590
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W: http://www.brynmeadows.co.uk/
This pay-and-play course is located near Caerphilly and is the perfect place for beginners as it’s a nine holer and relatively short but still provides a challenge for the more experienced golfer.
T: +44 (0)1495 220044
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W: http://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/leisure/golfcourses/oakdalegolfclub.htm
Caerphilly Golf Club offers challenging and exciting golf with panoramic views, relaxing bars and dining facilities.
T: +44 (0)29 20 863441
W: http://www.caerphillygolfclub.com/
Castell Heights sits amongst the rolling hills and woods of the Welsh countryside, not far from the fairy tale castle of Castell Coch and is a member of the Welsh Golfing Union.
T: +44 (0)29 2086 1128
W: http://www.golfclub.co.uk
Located on Caerphilly mountain, Ridgeway Golf Club welcomes golf players of all standards and offers coaching for those who would like to learn more. There are a range of special programmes for seniors, juniors and ladies.
T: +44 (0)29 2088 2255
W: http://www.ridgewaygolfclub.com/
The 18-hole park land course is a Par 70 that measures over 6,000 yards, with many tree lined undulating fairways, scenic water hazards and many strategically positioned bunkers.
The course is open to the public so you do not have to be a member to enjoy all the facilities.
To compliment the Golf Course and allow you to practice and maintain your swing, there is a 26 bay covered and floodlit Driving Range, open 7 days a week.
On the lower ground floor there is a large well stocked golf shop, superb changing facilities, Saunas and Fitness Suite with qualified professionals to assist and advise you on all your requirements.
T: +44 (0)1633 869321
W: http://www.greenmeadowgolf.com/
Established in 1875, Pontnewydd is one of Wales' older clubs and is slightly different from the rest with some holes which are played twice. Being a mountain-type course, there are some tough examinations throughout a round.
T: +44 (0)1633 482170
W: http://www.welshgolfcourses.com/south/pontnewydd.php
Set in beautiful parkland surroundings, the highly respected Llanyrafon Golf course includes the meandering Afon Llwyd and well-maintained greens. Other features also include a practice area and a putting green.
T: +44 (0)1633 874636
W: http://www.welshgolfcourses.com/south/llanyrafon.php
With spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons National Park, the course is one of two halves. The first nine holes are built around the old quarry while the back nine are set on rolling moorland.
T: +44 (0)1685 722822
W: http://www.valleystourism.com/course.php?i=8
Mountain Ash Golf Club, nestles on top of Cefn Pennar mountain with breathtaking views to the north as far as the Brecon Beacons and stunning views of the surrounding Cynon Valley. The Course has changed little since its inception in 1908 and still provides a stern but enjoyable test of golf.
Special Offer:
2 for 1 golf deal available at Aberdare and Mountain Ash Golf Clubs go to
www.valleystourism.com/offers
T: +44 (0)1443 479459
W: http://www.mountainashgc.co.uk/
Pontypool Golf Club is situated above the town of Pontypool and celebrated its centenary in 2003. It is in an idyllic setting and the course has lots of character and provides a good challenge to all handicaps alike.
T: +44 (0)1495 763655
W: http://www.pontypoolgolf.co.uk/
Woodlake Park overlooks the spectacular Llandegfedd reservoir, the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and the Vale of Usk. Opened in 1993, the course has matured quickly and the quality of both fairways and greens make this one of the finest inland golf courses in Wales.
T: +44 (0)1291 673933
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W: http://www.woodlake.co.uk/
Pontypridd Golf Club is sited on Pontypridd’s Common, over 400 feet above sea level overlooking the confluence of the Rhondda and Taff Valleys. Few courses have such a beautiful setting and it is ranked as one of Wales' premier clubs.
T: +44 (0)1443 409904
W: http://www.pontypriddgolfclub.co.uk/
Abertillery Sports Centre is the newest sports centre in Blaenau Gwent.
Opened in 2004, the new Abertillery Sports Centre has been fitted with the latest in the up to date technology, including Technogym equipment and a Gerflor in the Sports Hall, which is designed to reduce the potential for injury by facility users.
T: +44 (0)1495 212206
W: http://www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk/leisure/4367.asp
Officially opened in 1973, the centre has a long history of providing excellent sports and social facilities to all.
Having recently undergone extensive refurbishment, the centre now boasts an extremely well equipped Fitness Suite (Fit4All) and new changing rooms.
So whether you want an energetic workout in one of our 2 fitness suites, a leisurely dip in the pool or to just enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee in our Cafe Bar, there is something for everyone!
T: +44 (0)1443 690606
W:http://www.merthyr.gov.uk/Home/Leisure+and+Tourism/Recreation+and+Sport+OLD/Aberfan+and+Merthyr+Vale+Community+Centre/
T: +44 (0)1685 874961
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W: http://www.gmrc.co.uk/
Family run riding centre located on Caerphilly Mountain. The riding centre has been established for 25 years and provides lessons for all ages and abilities. Please call for times and further information.
T: +44 (0)29 2086 6281
W: http://www.visitcaerphilly.com/
The Farm has many animals on its hillside pastures and boasts no modern amusements or electronic wizardry, just a simple life at a steady pace.
Visitors may like a quiet walk in the high pastures to take time out and see the ponies grazing and playing in the sun, or walk the paths just touching the woodland home of rare and diverse wildlife.
T: +44 (0)1443 480327
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W: http://www.pitponies.co.uk/
Built in 1810, Goytre Wharf is now an 8-acre attraction alongside the canal, comprising a visitor centre (The Waterside Rest Tel: 01873 881355), canoe and boat hire (Red Line Boats Tel: 01873 880516), marina, aqueduct and restored limekilns.
Other features include interactive interpretation, computers explaining the area's history and ecology, brass rubbings trail, literacy sculpture trail, picnic area, children's slide, gift shop and tourist information.
Turn off A4042 at Llanover Village, south of Abergavenny and head west for 1 1/2 miles.
T: +44 (0)1873 881069 or (0)1606 723800
W: http://www.waterscape.com/
430 acres of water set in stunning countryside, ideal for walking, sailing, birdwatching, windsurfing and sailing.
The reservoir is located to the east of Pontypool in South Wales. The easiest way to get there is to follow the road signs to the reservoir and New Inn from the roundabouts on the A4042.
T: +44 (0)1495 769281 (Education Ranger)
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