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Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales

Vale of Glamorgan
The Vale of Glamorgan is in the county of Glamorgan in South Wales, and is a mix of rugged coastline and rolling countryside.

The Vale of Glamorgan’s coastline is now the Glamorgan Heritage Coastline in recognition of the unique yellow-grey cliffs that look out onto the Celtic Sea. The coastline here takes a significant battering from the brutal Atlantic winds and this has helped to shape it into the spectacular coastline that it is today. The Atlantic winds blowing onshore can make the waters here ideal for surfers, but not so comfortable for shipping as it attempts to sail up the Bristol Channel .

The region is host to a dizzying array of activities and attractions . Barry Island is a popular tourist resort in the region and the Barry Island Pleasure Park has drawn visitors to the area for many years. The park overlooks the beautiful Whitmore Bay and has over 50 rides and attractions for all ages.

Just as exhilarating a ride, although perhaps a little more sedate one, can be had at the wonderful Barry Island Railway . This is a heritage railway line that runs for two miles on two individual branches. Travellers on the mainline railway are used to the site of the old steam engines running on the heritage track, which runs parallel to the main line in section.

The vale plays host to the extremely popular Vale of Glamorgan Festival of Music . The festival is held in various venues in and around Cardiff and is a must for all those who appreciate fine music in wonderful settings.

Walking is one of the most popular ways to explore the wealth of the stunning scenery that awaits the visitor both inland and on the coast. Breathtaking coastal scenery greets walkers taking the trip along the Heritage Coast Footpath. This 14 mile walk starts in Aberthaw and follows the coastline all the way to Porthcawl .

Cycling is a great way to explore the area with many miles of tracks, quite country roads and lanes to explore. You can either stick to the low levels of the coastal area or cycle up into the breathtaking Heritage Hills. These picturesque hills are reputedly the birth place of the legendary King of the Knights of the Round Table, King Arthur .

The area is well served with a variety of accommodation that runs the entire gamut from luxury hotels through to caravan and camping sites.

More British Natural features?

Other South Wales Naturals

Brecon Beacons
The Black Mountains
Dan yr Ogof
Rhondda Valley
Gower Peninsula
River Tywi
Cambrian Mountains
Wye Valley
River Usk
Oxwich Bay
Cynon Valley
Taff Valley
The Vale of Neath
Pen Y Fan massif
Rhossili Bay
Sugar Loaf
River Clun
River Wye

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Archbishop of Canterbury Martyred by Vikings - 1012, Drake Attacks Cadiz - 1587, Cook reaches Australia - 1770, Waco Siege Ends - 1993
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