The stunning Riverside Cottage is nestled quietly in the one hundred and twenty acre Pontardawe Country Estate in the tranquil hamlet of Cilybebyll, close to the village of Pontardawe. The estate is incredible, brimming with woodlands, 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. Though you may find it hard to leave this wonderful spot, there is much to do and see. 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. Guests booking Riverside 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 Riverside Cottage towards the summit of Mynydd Marchywel and back. En route, guests follow mountain streams, climb over stiles, explore the bluebell woodlands 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.
The Gower Peninsula and the beautiful Swansea Bay coastline with its idyllic secret coves and glorious stretches of fine sand can be reached by car in twenty minutes. The National Showcaves of Wales and the Vale of Neath’s spectacular waterfalls are also nearby. Guests enjoy visits to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast, both less than half an hour away.
The Victorian seaside village of Mumbles enjoys a delightful promenade with many shops and restaurants. Mumbles was one of Dylan Thomas’ many stamping grounds and is the home of some delicious, 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. While in Mumbles you must sample some delicious ‘fresh off the boat’ seafood, handmade chocolates and tasty 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.
