Posted: 11/03/2022

Discover Rhondda Cynon Taf

It’s time for a change of scenery.

Time to discover Rhondda Cynon Taf in South Wales.

Located just off the M4, nestled between Cardiff and the Brecon Beacons, we’re somewhat of an undiscovered treasure – for now.

We have the space, fresh air and adrenaline-fuelled experiences people are craving right now.

A perfect place to relax and reconnect, to make new memories and to try something new

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Soar from the top of the Rhigos Mountain on the world’s fastest seated zipline at Zip World Tower. 

We are proud to be home to the only Zip World attraction in South Wales – you can see why they chose us! Just look at the view.

 

Cegin Glo Bistro at Zip World Tower is a great place to relax after your adventure. It’s a tribute to the miners who worked at Tower Colliery, the site upon which Zip World Tower has been built. 

Discover our unique industrial heritage at the award-winning A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park. Meet the men who worked as miners when they were just boys. They guide you on a journey “underground” and back in time to the days when we powered the world with our “black gold”.

Hold on tight as you ride DRAM! the last dram of coal to the surface and make sure you spend time in our fascinating, interactive exhibitions.

Caffe Bracchi is a nod to the traditional coffee shops that opened across Rhondda Cynon Taf in the early 1900s, thanks to Italian migrants who flocked here to work. You can also get your craft on at the Craft of Hearts shop and workshops.

The Royal Mint Experience is an attraction like no other!

It is fascinating for kids and adults alike. Go behind the scenes and into the world of coin collecting, the currencies used by different nations and how those amazing Olympic medals are made.

Strike your own coin, surrounding yourself with £1million in £1 coins and take a journey around the world that’s on the money! The gift shop is a must for collectors and souvenir-hunters alike and the on-site café serves a great range of food and drink to enjoy.

The rain that Wales is famed for is filtered from our mountains and streams and turned into a world-renowned whisky. Find out how at Penderyn Whisky Distillery. Enjoy whisky tastings, as well as vodka and other spirits made there and buy in the gift shop!

Make a splash in the National Lido of Wales, Lido Ponty - the only one of its kind in Wales. There are three outdoor heated pools for swimming, an inflatable obstacle course and splash pool for toddlers.

Stay and enjoy Lido Play adventure playground and the wider surroundings of Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, including the bandstand, sunken garden, and tribute to Evan and James James, who composed the Welsh National Anthem as they strolled in the park. The park is bordered by the River Taff and the Taff Trail (which is perfect for walking and cycling and runs from Cardiff to Brecon).

Explore historic Pontypridd, which has a lovely range of shops and great places to eat and drink. The town has stunning walking trails, such as the one across the common, where you can see “South Wales’ Stonehenge” the Rocking Stones

If town centres and shopping are your thing, then Rhondda Cynon Taf is just up your street. We are home to the winner of the UK’s Best High Street Award, Treorchy. It has scores of independent boutiques – from clothing and confectionary to florists and fine art prints.

If you prefer to be out of town, and hiking mountains instead of flying off them – we have you covered!

Penpych is one of just two tabletop mountains in Europe – and one of scores of beautiful walks in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Discover forestry and waterfalls as you make your way to its summit – and enjoy stunning views.

Of course we also have Maerdy and Garth Mountains…

Plus Rhigos, Bwlch, Clydach and more.

See all walks

Explore Dare Valley Country Park in Aberdare, which has an adventure playground, café, walks, lakes, nature and more! Bring the caravan, trailer tent or motorhome and stay or enjoy our recently-refurbished on-site accommodation, with family rooms.

Barry Sidings Countryside Park is a family favourite, with bike trails, bike hire, lake, play park, café for takeaway food and drink and mountain walks. 

See all parks 

Wander in ancient woodland and waterfalls, like those at Llanwonno.

 Bike through a landscape with thrilling trails

And epic rides

Capture a picture-perfect moment

Dine in style and stay a while in a secret garden set in the grounds of a luxury hotel and spa

 

Treat  yourself to something sweet

 

To a treat with your bubble in a beautiful garden bubble!

Or enjoy a range of delicious meals, from wood-fired pizza, to pub food classics and authentic cuisine

See places to eat and drink in Rhondda  Cynon Taf

Stay in exquisite hotels

Enjoy a place of your own – complete with hot tub

 

Stay in your caravan or motorhome in serene surroundings

Or cwtch up in comfy accommodation that’s perfect for adventurers and thrill-seekers

Discover Rhondda Cynon Taf, where you can enjoy a safe and relaxing break away from it all in stunning scenery. We are famous for our warm Valleys welcome and we can’t wait to see you!

• Current Covid-related restrictions in Wales allow accommodation, indoor dining and hospitality to open on May 17
• You can only travel to, and stay in, such accommodation with members of your own household. 

Thanks to Rhondda Cynon Taf residents:

Keith Jones

Adam John

Maureen Watkins/Muddy Boots RCT

Delme Thompson

Lee Williams

Tracey Purnell

Andrew Cooper and Bikeshredz Ltd (Caerphilly)

For allowing us to use their images of our stunning community.