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18 scenic routes in and around Cardiff to get you out in the sun

Now that the sun has finally decided to come out, it is time to get out of the house and go enjoy that fresh air. We have rounded up the best spots to go around Cardiff.

Margam Country Park

With just a 30-minute drive from Cardiff, this place is beautiful for a weekend getaway. There are different hikes available, all with varying lengths and levels of difficulty, meaning you can come back to this idyllic location more than once.

Pen Psych Mountain in Rhondda

While this walk might be a bit too much for someone who isn’t used to move around a lot, it is totally worth it. The trail makes its way over the valley, under waterfalls and through beautiful scenery, which includes Tolkien-esque forestry. You will be able to see the heads of the valleys where South Wales begins to spill into the Brecon Beacons, and also down into the Rhondda Valley, the real Welsh heartlands.

Pen-pych Mountain By Tracy Purnell – Ordnance Survey GetOutside Champion | Visit Rhondda Cynon Taf, South Wales

Castell Coch and Fforest Fawr

The woodland has an industrial history, and there are some impressive, deep holes left by iron mining here. While it might have been originally designed to take children on a magical journey through the forest with an idea of giant creature living in the woods  who has different objects (watch, treasure chest, dragon), then nowadays it is a nice walk for everyone.

Fourteen Locks Canal Centre

Just a short trip outside of Cardiff, in Newport, the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre is a great day out for anyone. The train offers visits a beautiful blend of abundance of natural beauty and wildlife. The terrific cafe in the visitors’ centre is a great spot to take a quick coffee break too.

Vote for Fourteen Locks Canal Centre to bag some cash

Sgwd yr Eira

This one is a go-to spot when living in Wales. Just a quick drive out of the city,  the Sgwd yr Eira trail is a challenging trail that pays off with its picture-perfect views. The route takes you through some of the area’s serene woodland before a couple of climbs lead you to the pristine waterfall. FYI- the walk will take you right underneath the water, so make sure you are prepared.