Encompassing the Welsh capital, Cardiff, lush undulating valleys, the highest concentration of castles in Britain and a wonderful coast, South Wales is a great destination for a group holiday.
There are active pursuits aplenty, with every passion catered for. Porthcawl is the place to head if you’re a keen or aspiring surfer, while Cardiff, surprisingly, has a fantastic White Water Course for beginners right through to pros! The city itself is bursting with superb attractions, including the castle, St Fagans National History Museum and the Wales Millennium Centre.
The Valleys of South Wales are the jewel in its crown, with so much to discover. There’s the Royal Mint where money is made, mountain biking at BikePark Wales, delving into the industrial past at Big Pit National Coal Museum and walking in the footsteps of noblemen gone by at Caerphilly Castle. While you’re in Caerphilly, don’t forget to try its crumbly white cheese, right where it’s made.
Hugging the border with England, the Wye Valley and the Vale of Usk are an ideal destination for a relaxing outdoor break. The town of Hay-on-Wye is well known across the literary world as a destination for book lovers, coming alive once a year for the iconic Hay Festival. A visit at any time of year, however, is sure to delight bibliophiles with over 20 book shops to peruse. Other fascinating towns to visit on the Wye include Rhayader, Builth Wells and Monmouth.
The river Wye itself can be enjoyed by canoe, gliding peacefully amongst the trees, stopping now and then to quench your thirst at one of the riverside pubs.
To the west of Cardiff, Glamorgan houses many interesting places to visit, from Coity Castle to the pretty village of Llantwit Major.
Dotted throughout the whole of South Wales are some wonderful properties and gardens, including Dyffryn which showcases an excellent Edwardian house, garden and established Arboretum. Another example of Edwardian garden design is Dewstow, which features a quirky network of underground grottoes. Other notable places of interest are Tredegar House and Veddw House Garden.
While on the subject of beautiful large houses, if you’re looking for a large cottage for your group holiday in South Wales, take a look at our collection.