Whether you are looking for great walks, photography locations or simply some of the best picnic spots in South Wales, the Glamorgan heritage coast has a huge amount of space to roam. And the best part of all? The visitor will find some of the most magical parts of all blissfully peaceful, even in mid-summer. Here are four recommended spots to visit on the coast of South Wales to take your breath away, all within half an hour of Court Colman Hotel & Spa. Don’t forget the camera!

High Drama at the Welsh Sphinx & Nash Point Lighthouse: (CF61 1ZH)

This most distinctive of South Wales landmarks is a photographer’s dream, while the whole of this area of craggy cliffs and stirring views makes for an epic location to take a walk, or a picnic. In short, it could make even a Sunday stroll look like an episode of Game of Thrones. You could park in the nearby village of St.Donats (which also has its own interesting arts centre) or it is also possible to visit Nash Point Lighthouse itself at selected times (see the website for further details).

Great for: Photography, sunsets

Celtic Crosses and great walks around Llantwit Major and Tresillian Bay

Medieval churches and hauntings; tea rooms, cute walks and spellbinding scenery; it’s all here to explore from the pretty village of Llantwit Major to Tresillian Bay. You could enjoy a supremely laid back day, complete with quirky heritage attractions and a pub lunch. Or alternately, take the more adventurous approach and explore on foot to discover 3000 years of history, from WW2 defences right through to some of the finest ancient Celtic Crosses you will find anywhere in the UK. The Vale of Glamorgan Visitors site has more on this fascinating area HERE.

Great for: History buffs, coastal walks

Rocky relaxation in Dunraven Bay (CF32 0RP)

Eternally beautiful but seldom busy, Dunraven is a great place for coast lovers of any age but especially inquisitive families. Children will love the firm sand for making castles, while there are countless rich rockpools just waiting to be peered into and explored to reveal their cast of amazing creatures. In spite of the fact that spot attracts keen geologists and even a few Dr Who fans (it formed a fairly recent BBC filming location for an episode!) the place still retains a peaceful ambiance too. You’ll also find the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Centre here.

Great for: Family adventures, rock-pooling

Serenity and sand dunes at Merthyr Mawr (CF32 0LF)

This wonderfully wild spot blends tumbling sand dunes with cute woodlands, gurgling waters and the tang of the coast. For those with a passion for the natural world, and rare fauna in particular, this site is also a treasury of unusual species and things to see. Species like dune pansies, sea holly and various orchids bring bright and strange forms into the mix, whilst
It’s a fine place to get away from it all for a few hours. But equally, provided you are respectful of the areas sensitive nature, there are also open spaces to roam, picnic and play. Hence it is also one of those places to visit with kids and let off some steam. It is also dog friendly; although do be wary of local wildlife by keeping your dog on a lead in nature reserve areas.

Great for: Wildlife lovers, botanists

Court Colman Manor: Perfect for luxury escapes and walking breaks in Glamorgan, South Wales

Offering a wonderfully tranquil country house location, superb food and spa facilities, Court Colman Manor is a magical destination to explore the rugged coast of South Wales along with all modern comforts on your return. In spite of being within easy reach of Cardiff and Swansea, you can enjoy wild walks and fabulous scenery here, before enjoying our superb restaurant  and the delights of one of the best hotels in South Wales. Keep an eye on our Facebook page and main site for further news, along with some great ways to enjoy luxury breaks in Glamorgan.