Parkland Cottage enjoys a fabulous position on the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is full of forests, rivers, bluebell woods, sprawling fields, bird nesting boxes, beautiful picnic spots, a stately manor house and other holiday cottages. It is the perfect rural retreat between the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The estate courtyard where many of the cottages are located is bounded by the upper reaches of the picturesque River Clydach and on the other side by green parkland pastures grazed by sheep and cows. The high hills of blue pennant sandstone provide the backdrop to an idyllic and tranquil scene. Parkland Cottage enjoys a fabulous spot where you can dine alfresco watching the lambs and enjoy fabulous sunsets over the parkland. Guests booking Parkland Cottage are free to roam the estate including its award winning bluebell woodland. The estate’s farm walk is a circular walk for guests which meanders from the doorstep of Parkland Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woods and traverse lazy green fields. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas include the Swansea Valley, Swansea Bay, the Bristol Channel and the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cottage is an excellent base for those that want to explore the landscapes by bike. The Afan Forest and Bike Park Wales are easily accessible. There is a golf course close by for golf fans and the supermarket in Pontardawe is open 24 hours for those late night emergencies. There is also a village pub within walking distance.
The beautiful Swansea Bay coastline and the Gower Peninsula with its idyllic secret coves in and glorious stretches of fine sand is just twenty minutes drive away. You should not miss a trip to the iconic, award winning Rhossili Bay with its dramatic, panoramic views and excellent hiking paths. Rhossili has been described as ‘The supermodel of British beaches’ by The Independent and has won numerous accolades from UK Travel Writers including the best spot for a picnic. The Times listed the beach as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog friendly beach’ so if you do have your furry friend with you, you should definitely go. At low tide the beach is enormous and it is possible to walk across to Llangennith or even to the Worms Head. It is steep to walk down to the beach so it is not suitable for pushchairs or visitors with mobility issues.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles with its promenade, shops and restaurants is worth a visit and for those that want to stay outdoors, the National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some world class ice cream. Mumbles is steeped in history with its lighthouse being built in 1794. It also boasts a Victorian pier and Oystermouth Castle which sits on the hilltop overlooking the sea. There are lovely boutique shops and galleries including the gorgeous Lovespoon Gallery and the Gower Gallery. No visit to Mumbles would be complete without sampling some ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, its handmade chocolates and its fantastic ice creams.
The Region
South Wales is a fantastic holiday destination with lots to offer whether you are in search of beaches, cities, countryside or castles.
Head to Gower, an Area of Outstanding National Beauty or the extensive Brecon Beacons which encompass the South and mid-Wales. The landscape is stunning and there are countless walks to explore on an adventure holiday.
Swansea Bay coastline features idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand (5 miles!) and is a popular destination for water sports.
South Wales also boasts the largest castle in Wales, Caerphilly Castle. Visitors of all ages will be impressed by the enormous walls, gatehouses, towers and vast water defence as well as the great dining hall and maze! Soaking up the history of one of the most remarkable mediaeval castles in western Europe makes for a fascinating day out for all the family.
You can also find history in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, from Cardiff Castle to the shopping arcades dating back to the Edwardian and Victorian times. Yet Cardiff has become known as a modern and creative city with lots to entertain visitors including theatre shows, comedy and gigs, alongside restaurants and bars for the full evening experience. Local delicacies include the Glamorgan sausage. Cardiff Bay is an attractive spot for cafés, bars and restaurants.
Sporting fans will also enjoy South Wales. Cardiff is the home of Welsh Rugby Union and Wales is considered one of the most successful nations in the sport. Check the fixtures for upcoming home game matches.
Whatever you’re interested in, South Wales has something for everyone.
