The Adventurous One: The Afan Valley is mountain bikers’ heaven, with world-class trails sporting ominous names like 'Y Wâl' ('The Wall') and 'Blade'. But fear not, for the inexperienced or more leisurely riders, there’s plenty of easier trails too.

The Beautiful One: Don’t just take our word for it, renowned 19th-century naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace said so. ‘I cannot call to mind a single valley…that comprises so much beautiful and picturesque scenery…as the Vale of Neath’.

The Quiet One: This valley would once have been filled with the sounds, sights and smells from the world’s deepest anthracite mine. Nature has now largely reclaimed this area, restoring its former splendour and tranquillity.

The Arty One: At the heart of this valley is Pontardawe, home to a thriving culture scene at Pontardawe Arts Centre. The Pontardawe Festival takes place in August each year, with an eclectic mix of live music.

The Rugged One: The westernmost valley is known as the gateway to the wilderness of the Black Mountains of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This is where you’re most likely to hear the Welsh language being used in everyday life.