48 hours in Neath Port Talbot...
Discover the Welsh county with tranquil forests, a stunning seafront and countryside walks...
THERE’S a lot more to Neath Port Talbot than the steelworks. The county borough, which has an uncanny knack of creating Hollywood actors, has become a magnet for holiday makers looking to make the most of the great outdoors –whatever the weather.
Some 75% of the area is covered in tranquil forests and hills, and it contains a stunning seafront and countryside walks, criss-crossed by world class cycle paths which vary from relaxing to extremely challenging.
From the surf-friendly waters of Aberavon Beach to the breathtakingly beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, we take a look at some great ways to spend 48 hours in Neath Port Talbot ...
WHERE IS IT
The county borough of Neath Port Talbot sits to the east of Swansea on the south Wales coast.
HOW TO GET THERE
Both Neath and Port Talbot have train and bus stations in the centre of town, making them easily accessible for visitors.
If you plan on heading out to explore the remoter regions, then a car or a bike would come in handy.
WHERE TO STAY
It all depends on the reason for your visit. You can relax and enjoy the two towns with a spa and gourmet food, or if you’re thinking of something a bit more energetic, then accommodation on the cycling and rambling routes is also avaiable.
HERE ARE SOME IDEAS: A room with a view:
Fancy waking up, opening the curtains, and seeing Swansea’s glorious bay stretching out into the horizon? Or do you want to watch the sun set and the moon rise at the end of the day? Then check out the Best Western Aberavon Beach Hotel on Aberavon seafront.
Fit for a king:
If you’re looking for somewhere in the centre of town, the Castle Hotel in Neath is a popular favourite. Complete with bars and function rooms, it also caters for cyclists if you need somewhere secure to hang your helmet.
A rustic retreat:
Afan Lodge – or Swiss Lodge, as some call it – is a ski lodge style accommodation bang in the middle of Afan Forest Park. Perfect if you’re on two wheels, or on a rambling adventure.
On top of the world:
Yes, it might look like a fairytale tower, but you can really spend the night inside this historic landmark.
There are 70 rooms available in the Towers Hotel & Spa complex, but for the ultimate experience there are three luxury bedroom suites inside the tower itself offering views across Swansea Bay.
An urban boutique:
If you want to pamper yourself a little, enjoy some Mediterranean dining and take it easy at The Bluebell Hotel in Neath.
WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK
Port Talbot-born Hollywood star Richard Burton once described lava bread (yes, seaweed) as “Welshman’s caviar”.
To find out for yourself, the best way to sample lava bread is as part of a full Welsh breakfast, which is also served with cockles.
Or if you’d rather cook your own, you could pop to Neath or nearby Swansea Market to pick up some fresh sea food to fry.
If you want to make the most of the seafront, grab some fish and chips as you stretch your legs or, depending on the weather, an ice cream and/or a coffee.
There are a few options along Aberavon Beach, including Cafe Remo’s, Franco’s and Gelato Gatti.
Away from the shore, you can get a good pub meal in The Brit in Cwmavon en route to Afan Forest Park, or for a
unique setting there’s the Abbotts Kitchen near Margam Country Park, which is run by volunteers from the Margam Abbey parish.
In the town centres, Blanco’s in Port Talbot is a popular choice, while Taste Brasserie and Bar has a reputation for a fine Sunday lunch.
In Neath town centre, you can’t beat a lunch time special at Italian restaurant Remo’s , or grab a coffee and a bite to eat at The Old Market Tavern.
THINGS TO DO Aberavon Beach:
Aberavon’s three miles of sand are ideal for a walk or a run, and if it isn’t too chilly you could roll up your trousers and go for a paddle.
The seafront has had a major facelift in recent years, with new public works of art all adding to experience. And don’t forget to stop for an ice cream along the way!
The Richard Burton trails:
Walk in the footsteps of the Hollywood-conquering actor, from his birthplace in Pontrhydyfen high up in the pine-clad hills, to Taibach where he was raised.
You can download the walking trails from the Discover Neath Port Talbot website.
Other success stories from the area include Port Talbot’s Sir Anthony Hopkins and Michael Sheen, and Ray Milland, Wales’ first Oscarwinning actor, from Neath.
Margam Park:
The 850-acre estate two miles east of Port Talbot is steeped in history, wildlife and natural beauty. Its centerpiece is Margam Castle, a Victorian manor house which has featured in several films and TV shows, including a few in search of its ghosts like Most Haunted.
Also on the grounds are the remains of a medieval Chapter House where monks copied out the Domesday Book, and the nearby Margam Stones Museum, which contains a collection of Celtic stone crosses. For outdoor treetop adventures, Margam County Park is home to the Go Ape attraction.
Gnoll Park:
This vast 18th century garden covers more than 100 acres, and is dotted with interesting features to discover, from flowing waterfalls to the foundations of Gnoll House.
Activities include Foot Golf, children’s adventure playgrounds, and a free weekly park run. And if you’ve packed a fishing rod, there are also two dedicated fishing ponds in the park.
Afan Forest Park:
Cycling, walking, fishing, camping? Afan Forest Park is the one-stop place for outdoor activities, with visitors from around the world heading to the valley to make the most of its terrain and natural beauty. A particular favourite with mountain bikers, there are trails to suit all ages and abilities.
Aberdulais Tin Works:
Step back in time at the National Trust property, and discover how this Welsh village utilised the latest technology to tame the ice age landscape. The attraction has a flowing waterfall and Europe’s largest electricity-generating waterwheel, a replica of the wheel which would have generated power 400 years ago. Check the website for seasonal activities throughout the year.
Historical Neath:
Want to explore some of Neath’s ancient history? Landmarks include Neath Abbey and Gatehouse, which is cared for by Cadw; Neath Castle, in the centre of town; and nearby Saint David’s Church, a 19th century Victorian Gothic landmark.
Fans of Victorian architecture should also visit the Gwyn Hall, a Victorian theatre which was reconstructed following a fire in 2007.
Neath and Tennant Canals:
These two separate but linked canals are perfect for walking along, or if you want to see Neath from the water, you might be able to sail it as well – check availability with Neath and Tennant Canals Trust.
The waterfalls of JMW Turner:
In the late 18th century, a young artist called JMW Turner paid a visit to Wales in search of the wild romantic landscapes.
His sketches and paintings from the time include the waterfalls at Melincourt and Aberdulais Falls, which are now part of the Tate’s collection. Melincourt is on the left bank of the Neath river, and can be reached by a public footpath south of Resolven.
Aberdulais Falls are part of the National Trust.