Southeast Wales

Introducing Southeast Wales

Southeast Wales is industrialised, home to half the country's population and much of its big business. But strike out beyond the urban sprawl and there's much to admire amongst the sweeping, history-rich uplands.

In keeping with the industrial theme, there's classic heritage here. The sombre valleys of Taff, Rhymney and Rhondda were once the heartbeat of the iron and coal trades, which brought wealth and, later in the 1980s, despair in equal measure. Gradually, tourists are discovering that areas such as Blaenafon, a World Heritage Site, and Big Pit are crucial in uncovering the true Wales.

To the east, the Wye Valley stretches north-south from the market town of Monmouth to Chepstow's moody castle and celebrated horse-racing track. In between, the ethereal riverbank ruins of Tintern Abbey are always popular.

On the southern coast, Swansea is stirring. The childhood home of poet and writer Dylan Thomas is a fitting second city and gateway to one of Wales' true gems, the windswept beach-and-cliff hideaway of the Gower Peninsula.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009