Adventures & Activities

Kidwelly Castle

This Norman castle overlooking the River Gwendraeth is a photographer’s dream especially on a misty morning.

Mighty and imposing, this great castle was even used as the back drop in the very first scene of ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Paxton Tower

This Neo-Gothic folly built by Sir William Paxton and is known to have been erected in honour of Lord Nelson.

Situated on the top of a hill near Llanarthney in the River Tywi and can easily be seen from the National Botanical Gardens, offers stunning views even on a cold and windy day and makes a wonderful location for a picnic.

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Gold Mines

Welsh gold only occurs naturally in two distinct areas of Wales and is highly prized for its origin and scarcity. Set amid the wooded hillsides overlooking beautiful Cothi Valley is the Dolaucothi Gold Mines, the only known Roman gold mines in Britain 

Here’s your opportunity to pan for gold to see what little nuggets you can find or take self-guided audio or underground guided tour and if you feeling special you can shop for piece of Welsh Gold Jewellery 

The site also has several circular walks ranging from easy to longer more challenging hikes. The Dolaicothi Arms serves food and drinks.

Laugharne Castle

This is a must see for any visitor to the valley, the cute little town is perched above the beautiful salt marsh, a really interesting area of intertidal habitat. The town is lovely in its own right; however, it is also home to Dylan Thomas’ Boathouse which is also a great little walk out on the low cliff tops looking across this very active estuary with the lovely interlacing wetlands. 

To top it all there is also the spectacular 13th century castle, towering above the marsh and Taf estuary. A ‘brown as owls’ castle which was beloved of Dylan, keeping watch above the water. 

And if you’re feeling peckish Dylan’s Boathouse, owned by the National Trust is now a tea room overlooking the estuary.

Llansteffan Castle

A castle with a view! This dramatic castle with towering walls overlooks Carmarthen Bay and surrounding wetlands and another great day out down the road and it isn’t far to walk to Dylan’s writing shed in Laugharne so there’s a bit to keep you entertained.

Park in the beach car park and walk up from the shore. When the tide out it offers wonderful views of gleaming white sands as far as your eye can see and we believe is one of the most stunning locations in south Wales.

There’s a little cafe by the car park, great fish and chips from Florries’ cabin and The Inn at the Sticks also does a good lunch.

Dryslwyn Castle

This 12th century castle was once an important seat of the ancient south Wales kingdom of Deheubarth. Dryslwyn Castle stands on high ground overlooking the Tywi Valley and although it is in quite a ruinous state, there is no charge for entry and there are nice benches to sit and enjoy the extensive views.

Dinefwr castle & Newton House

This large estate on the edge of Llandeilo is great for a day out. There is Dinefwr castle which was built in 877, it is now managed by CADW and owned by the local Wildlife Trust. Adjacent is the 18th century Newton House; Capability Brown landscaped this lovely estate, so it is worth going for those wonderful vistas alone, but as an added bonus the mediaeval deer park is a pleasure to walk around, with boardwalks and interesting veteran trees. 

Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales manage the ancient and untouched woodland alongside parkland to make for a beautiful nature reserve, easily accessed from either Dinefwr Parc or Llandeilo. Full of bluebells and wild garlic in spring and inhabited by many birds and mammals.

The National Trust runs a cafe from Newton House which offers plenty of outdoor seating. There are often events happening so well worth checking out before your visit.

Carreg Cennen Castle

This wild and wonderful castle, Carreg Cennen, has been described as ‘the most magnificently sited castle in Wales’. High on a cliff it is visible from many aspects of the valley, it was constructed in 1248 and has its own natural cave. There is a lovely cafe and shop which sells hearty and wholesome lunches, there is also a circular walk down into the valley below the castle.

Garn Goch

Lovely views across the valley, ancient iron age forts and a geopark all make this walk appealing. 

There are two walk options. The shorter walk is only a couple of miles and is fairly easy going. Starting from the car park, up on to the fort itself, then looping round from the back of the ancient iron age fort towards the farm and then down the track returning to the car park. A slightly longer walk can be achieved, which is worth doing and is detailed in Chris Barber’s Classic Walks in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre

Managed by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (conservation charity) this breath-taking 450-acre mosaic of lakes, reedbeds, woods, pools and lagoons offers a vital refuge for some of the world’s most spectacular birds, many of which are rare or endangered and is one the most popular places in South Wales to visit.

Erwain Escapes

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Llanelli Wetland centre

An incredible Welsh wetland made up of a breath-taking 450-acres of lakes, reedbeds, woods, pools and lagoons and is one of the most popular places to visit. An opportunity to hand-feed some of the world’s rarest birds as you find out all about these wonderful animals as you whined your way through.

If you’re really lucky you might spot a wonderful kingfisher or even a wild otter and as the seasons change, you can witness the transition of migratory species.

Carmel Nature Reserve

A reserve managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales is home to a rare seasonal lake called a turlough and thought to be the only one in Britain.

A delightful tapestry of woodland and flower rich meadows with evidence of old abandoned quarries and large lime kilns where lime was taken from the site dating back to medieval times. 

Poor Man’s Wood

An old woodland with an interesting history which is managed by the local Wildlife Trust. A little tricky to find but is a stunning woodland full of woodland flowers in spring.

Gelli Aur Arboretum

A very fine 10-acre arboretum, planted with some venerable and massive trees.

A cafe and nature reserve with very fine views add to the reasons to visit the Golden Grove (Gelli Aur) country park and its nature trails.

National Botanic Gardens of Wales

Stunning managed gardens and home to the largest single span glasshouse, glorious wildlife areas and inspirational vistas stretching over 400 acres, including an enchanting mosaic of woodland and flower-rich meadows.

The gardens are both a visitor attraction and a centre for botanical research and conservation.

Dinefwr castle & Newton House

This large estate on the edge of Llandeilo is great for a day out. There is Dinefwr castle which was built in 877, it is now managed by CADW and owned by the local Wildlife Trust. Adjacent is the 18th century Newton House; Capability Brown landscaped this lovely estate, so it is worth going for those wonderful vistas alone, but as an added bonus the mediaeval deer park is a pleasure to walk around, with boardwalks and interesting veteran trees. 

Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales manage the ancient and untouched woodland alongside parkland to make for a beautiful nature reserve, easily accessed from either Dinefwr Parc or Llandeilo. Full of bluebells and wild garlic in spring and inhabited by many birds and mammals.

The National Trust runs a cafe from Newton House which offers plenty of outdoor seating. There are often events happening so well worth checking out before your visit.

Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve Circuit

This stunning walk can be a little challenging at points but is an absolute gem of a place taking you through breath-taking river valleys, open woodland, along boardwalks through wet woodlands and into a wonderful RSPB nature reserve.

The boardwalk gives easy access to the wet woodland and the river’s edge, well known for its bird watching but it’s also a fabulous place full of beautiful habitats popular with a wide range of wildlife whilst also giving stunning views. The circular walk around this reserve is well worth doing but can be rough underfoot and some clambering is required, suitable footwear is a must.

The spectacular Gwenffrwd Dinas Nature Reserve is only 45 minutes from Cwmdu and has a roaring river running through beautiful wooded and craggy hillsides, covered in heather and bilberry.

Up the steep hillside is the cave of Twm Sion Cati, a 15th century highwayman and conman of some repute, he stole from the rich but apparently didn’t pass it onto the poor.

Erwain Escapes

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Pembrey Country Park

Has a range of activities to offer. As well as having an eight-mile-long golden sandy beach offering the opportunity of fishing and kayaking it has one of the only remaining dry ski slopes in Wales at the parks Activity Centre where you can also take in a round on the nine-hole pitch and putt course or hire a bike for a ride round the wonderful forests with numerous bike tracks and cycleways.

Llyn Llech Owain

A superb country park set around a historical and mythological lake, known for its wildlife. There are paths and a mountain biking and cycling route around the lake. It’s a short route but has great views. An on-site café provides refreshments and there is ample parking.

Coed Trallwm

Just beyond Llanwrtyd Wells this private bike trail offers a variety of fun trails through the woods and has a cafe to boot. Worth checking on the Facebook Page any details on opening.

Cwm Rhaeadr Forest 

Cwm Rhaeadr Forest in the upper Tywi Valley near Rhandirmwyn and Llandovery is a secluded and hidden gem of a ride.

The Cwm Rhaeadr Mountain Biking Trail is a 6.7km red graded quality singletrack riding, including a descent over a rocky ridge, along with stunning views over the scenic valley and waterfall.

There are also lovely walks in this valley with a spectacular waterfall.

Brechfa Forest

The Brechfa Forest with its dramatic views and deep river valleys, is fantastic for mountain biking as well as some lovely walking trails.

The Gorlech Trail is made up of three big climbs and descents stretching over its 19km. More experienced riders can test their skills on the formidable black graded Raven Trail whilst the Derwen Trail is the perfect starting point for families and novices. There are a range of lovely walks which explore this mixed woodland. Check the website for details and updates on trails and walks.

Crychan Forest

This large forest has beautiful huge trees, great views and plenty of wildlife, walking, horse and a number of cycling routes, suitable for all abilities and gives you a great chance to explore the local countryside safely.

Choose from five varied routes which you can join from either of the four forest car parks around the woodland. Halfway car park has five trails, Cefn Farm car park has three trails, Brynffo car park has 4 trails and Esgair has three trails and there are links to the Epynt Way.

There are also a number of Horse trails and cycling routes, suitable for all abilities and give you a great chance to explore the local countryside safely.

Erwain Escapes

Your unique and cosy holiday cabin is here.

Marros Sands

Perhaps somewhat off the beaten track, the nearest road access is from Marros village around a mile’s walk but Marros Sands is largely untouched and a great place to enjoy some solitude and take a bracing walk.

Besides the caves towards the western end of the beach you’ll find the remains of a shipwreck and a petrified forest.

Burry Port

A long, mostly sandy beach with some pebbles to the east of the marina, the area is popular for water sports such as boating from the marina, which also has its own lighthouse.

Pembrey (Cefn Sidan)

A long, wide, unspoilt, sandy beach, backed by sand dunes, stretching for approximately 10 miles.

The first beach in Wales to achieve the coveted blue flag award. It lies within Pembrey Country Park and offers views across Carmarthen Bay to the hilly coastline on the other side and at the northern end of the beach, you’ll find a number of ship’s ribs protruding from the sand.

Pendine

Stretching for around seven miles Pendine sits on the shore of Carmarthen Bay running all the way from Gilman Point to Laugharne Sands.

Used for car and motorbike racing early in the last century. Several big-name racers completed speed records and in recent years Idris Elba broke the ‘Flying Mile’ record in 2015.

Llansteffan

This lovely beach is situated on the western side of the Tywi / Towy Estuary. Perhaps considered an estuary but it certainly looks like a beach especially with its expanse of fine and golden sand.

Pembrey Country Park

Has a range of activities to offer. As well as having an eight-mile-long golden sandy beach offering the opportunity of fishing and kayaking it has one of the only remaining dry ski slopes in Wales at the parks Activity Centre where you can also take in a round on the nine-hole pitch and putt course or hire a bike for a ride round the wonderful forests with numerous bike tracks and cycleways.