Zip World Tower and Penderyn Distillery

The adventure started at ZipWorld Tower on the site of the former Tower Colliery.

The Phoenix Zip Line is the world's fastest seater zip line, and as you fly down from the top of the Rhigos Mountain across Llyn Fawr, at speeds of up to 50 miles and hour, you have stunning views of the Brecon Beacons.

After this adventure, it was time for lunch in the old mine buildings at Cegin Glo Bar and Bistro - great food including vegan and specialist options, and a chance to watch others zipping through the air.

From Tower its only a 10 minute journey to Penderyn Distillery, for a fascinating tour, and tasting, of the Welsh whisky produced with crisp, clear welsh water.

Drive through the Valleys

The journey into the Valleys has stunning views, from the Rhigos and Bwlch mountains. There are lots of opportunities to stop for a short walk or a longer stretch, such as  the Sky to Sea path near Nant -Y-Moel.

Another stunning feature are the waterfalls, and Luci stopped off for a quick dip at Pen Pych Waterfall, a short walk from the Pen Pych Valley Car park. Click here to follow the walking route that she hiked.

Another feature are the characterful towns - Luci stopped off at Treorchy on her way to Our Welsh Caravan and Camping where she spent the night. For dinner she visited the Llangeinor Arms, in the historic village of Llangeinor - fascinating buildings and stunning views alongside a tasty dinner.

Day by the Sea

A day by the sea started at Rest Bay, Porthcawl, with breakfast overlooking the beach (where surfers were having fun). Rest Bay itself is a playground for kite surfing, surfing and paddleboarding, and there is also a beautiful promenade running towards Porthcawl, from which you can cycle or walk down to the beaches and coves which hug the craggy coastline.

From here Luci went on to explore Merthyr Mawr village, Candleston Castle and then the giant sand dunes at Merthyr Mawr Nature Reserve. Travelling further along the Glamorgan coast, Luci stopped at Dunraven Bay, which is famous for it’s fossil hunting and is a fabulous day out for any geology enthusiasts. The large bedrock beaches here are full of fossils and fertile rock pools.

Finally, it was a stop at the Nash Point Lighthouse, with it’s cinematic cliffs and dramatic views across to the West Country.