The Glamorgan Heritage Coast boasts stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes with hidden villages and country lanes dotted along the way which are simply some of the best places to see in Wales
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast is a 14 mile stretch of coastal path walks of outstanding beauty between Aberthaw in the Vale of Glamorgan and Porthcawl further west. Dramatic cliffs, secluded coves on golden sands and stunning views make it a must for walkers, cyclists or anyone with a love of the countryside.
And not only are there the views, but the area is also steeped in history.
The ruins of Dunraven Castle stand upon the headland at Dunraven Bay. More a large fortified house than a castle, it had its own kitchen gardens and landing stage in the bay. It was lived in right up until the 1940’s but was demolished in 1963 as it was crumbling and considered unsafe.
There are many legends of smuggling and shipwrecking associated with this dramatic spot in times gone by but today it is more noted for the spectacular sandstone cliffs and for Southerndown beach which is an excellent swimming and recreational area.

Ogmore-by-Sea is another popular destination for a great day out, with amazing views along the coast and across the estuary to Merthyr Mawr and Porthcawl. Discover the many caves and explore the flora and fauna of the rock pools (but always taking heed of the ever-changing tides).
Here too stands the extensive ruin of a castle - by the River Ewenny and the Stepping Stones over to Merthyr Mawr.
Ogmore Castle guards a major fording place into southern Wales, and sits on flat land rather than atop a ridge-crest where nature would have provided extra defence. From Ogmore, Welsh access to this Norman lordship was effectively barred.
Take your time here, relax a while and refresh yourself in one of the tea rooms by the river or enjoy a cool drink in one of the traditional local pubs.
Halfway along the heritage coast on a promontory with precipitous cliffs on the west stands the medieval St. Donat's Castle.
In the 13th century St Donats was held by the de Haweys family who also had estates in Somerset and Dorset. In 1925 the Castle was sold to the newspaper millionaire William Randolph Hearst and it was commandeered for training of army officers during the war. Then in 1960 was taken over by an international school called Atlantic College, which is still thriving there today.

www.glamorganheritagecoast.com/
Southerndown, Bridgend CF32 0RP
+44(0)1656 880157
Google map: bit.ly/nh2CwU

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends