Sprawling along the River Severn as it flows into the Bristol Channel, South Wales is a scenic region of rugged mountains, wildlife-filled moorlands and historically-rich towns. It centres around the lively Welsh capital, Cardiff, and encompasses the majestic landscapes of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Dominated by a medieval castle and the strikingly designed Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff is the most-visited tourist destination in Wales. Get your retail fix in the beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcades or explore the interactive exhibits of the Techniquest science centre, then dine in one of the waterfront restaurants that occupy Cardiff Bay’s former dockyards.
Cardiff is linked to Brecon Beacons National Park along the Taff Trail, which hugs the banks of the River Taff along an abandoned branch of the Taff Vale Railway and the Glamorganshire Canal. Brecon Beacons National Park is dominated by the soaring peaks of Pen y Fan and Cribyn, which watch over its scenic moorlands, prehistoric monuments and charming market towns.
Getting there
Cardiff Airport is the main gateway to South Wales and is located 25 minutes’ drive from the city centre. Trains connect towns and villages across the region.