Footpaths
Walking & Hiking in the Valleys
Unspoilt trails, sweeping views, and hidden stories — all from the perfect base for the Brecon Beacons.
Why the Valleys?
From waterfall country to ridgelines, the South Wales Valleys put wilder landscapes on your doorstep with Cardiff just down the road.
Variety of landscapes
Shift from waterfall gorges to high moorland and heritage valleys in a single weekend.
Room to breathe
Quiet trails mean you can linger on summits, picnic beside streams, and breathe in the open skies.
Hidden gems
Discover miners’ paths, hidden reservoirs, and story-rich communities off the main tourist map.
Basecamp for Beacons
Stay in the Valleys and reach Brecon Beacons summits, waterfalls, and visitor hubs in under an hour.
Top Walks & Hidden Gems
Pick a theme to match your mood; each collection points to starting spots and nearby amenities.
Waterfall Trails
Trace cascades through fern-draped gorges and feel the spray of the famous Four Falls.
Discover routesForest Walks
Seek out quiet conifers, native woodland, and wildlife reserves perfect for mindful rambles.
Discover routesBig View Hikes
Climb ridges for sweeping panoramas across the Valleys and the Brecon Beacons skyline.
Discover routesLocal Favourites
Follow tried-and-loved routes recommended by local walking groups and guides.
Discover routes
Stay in the Valleys, walk the Beacons.
The Valleys make a smart base when you want Brecon Beacons adventure with easy logistics. Stay close to public transport, trailheads, and community hospitality without sacrificing dramatic scenery.
- Walker-friendly B&Bs, inns, and self-catering stays welcome muddy boots and early breakfasts.
- Independent pubs and cafés keep you fuelled with local produce between hikes.
- Easy links to trailheads, kit hire, and the Heads of the Valleys road keep the Beacons within easy reach.
Practical gateway
Use these quick links to plan where to stay, refuel, and add culture to your walking trip.
Stay
Browse walker-friendly stays with drying rooms, hearty breakfasts, and flexible check-ins.
Browse staysEat & Drink
Find pubs, taprooms, and cafés ready for muddy boots and hearty appetites.
Find places to eatAttractions
Pair your walks with heritage railways, museums, and family-friendly diversions.
See attractionsComing Soon — Step-by-step guides with maps, GPX downloads, and insider tips.
Local Voices
“The Valleys feel wilder than you’d expect.”
Hear from the people who walk, maintain, and champion these trails every week.
Seasonal hooks
Every season reveals a different side of the Valleys; use this guide to time your next trip.
Spring (Wildflowers)
Bluebells carpet valley floors and rivers run full after winter rains.
Summer (Ridge walks)
Long evenings make ridge-line adventures perfect for sunset picnics.
Autumn (Forests in colour)
Beech and birch woods glow amber and gold along sheltered trails.
Winter (Crisp peaks)
Clear frosts bring far-reaching views and invigorating climbs.
Plan your walking adventure in the Valleys.
Use the Valleys as your hub for itineraries, guided experiences, and spontaneous rambles.