Autumn walks in the Dramatic Heart of Wales
Picture it: you take a deep breath of crisp Autumn air, hues of red, orange and yellow paint the landscape before you. Leaves crunch beneath your feet with each step through woodland, towards a waterfall, along the canal-side or the coast path.
Zip up your jacket and tightly lace your walking boots: time to experience autumn walks, here in the Dramatic Heart of Wales.
Autumn is perhaps the most dramatic season. The change of the landscape’s palette offers a new perspective to our vales and valleys. Whether you are an avid wildlife watcher, seeking an outdoors escape, or just wanting to unwind with some serene me-time, discover our recommendations for autumn walks in the Dramatic Heart of Wales.
Banwen Meadows and Woods
Take a breath in the peaceful surroundings of Banwen Meadows and Woods. The network of gravelled and tarmacked paths allow for easy and accessible exploration through rolling hills and woodlands. The brambles and surrounding trees offer a plethora of habitats for birds, insects and mammals. Listen out, you may even get to hear the buzzard’s distinctive call.
Eaglesbush Valley
Oak leaves are among the last to fall, slowly turning a golden brown and a rich red. Witness the seasonal change in all its artistic action at the oak woodland of Eaglesbush Valley — which offers an idyllic autumnal escape. The hour-long route through the Local Nature Reserve follows a woodland stream before clearings offer pleasant views of the fields and hills in the distance.
Wales Coast Path – Margam Moors
The Margam Moors section of the Coast Path offers a route for those who love to get off the beaten track. Overlook the contrasting landscapes of the steelworks and Swansea Bay. Most of the moors is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to rare plants and invertebrates. See what wildlife you can spot as you stroll along the coastline.
Penrhys Trail
Allow yourself up to three hours for this route which takes you through the heart of the Afan Valley and Pontrhydyfen village. This route requires some exertion, with steep climbs in places: but the rewarding views of the dynamic landscape more than compensates. Wildlife watchers should keep an eye out for nightjars as they begin their migration south for winter.
Swansea Valley Wildlife Walk
This gentle circular path follows the River Tawe with a canal-side and woodland setting. The route is ideal for both history and wildlife enthusiasts — the canal has a rich industrial past but is now transformed into a wildlife haven. The northernmost section has been declared a Local Nature Reserve, and the area is even known to be home to families of otters. Can you spot them?
Looking for even more walking inspiration? Discover our full list of walks here.
Plan your visit to the Dramatic Heart of Wales this Autumn here.
