1. Things to Do in South Wales
  2. Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

South Wales offers thrilling outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to ziplining and coasteering – all set in stunning landscapes for all ages and experience levels.

For visitors seeking thrills and fresh air, South Wales is the perfect playground for outdoor adventures. With its mix of mountains, valleys, rivers and coastline, the region offers a wide range of exhilarating activities in stunning natural settings. Whether you're ziplining above treetops, kayaking through quiet estuaries, or hiking up Pen y Fan – the highest peak in southern Britain – South Wales invites you to challenge yourself and discover the great outdoors in unforgettable ways. The Brecon Beacons National Park, Afan Forest Park and the Glamorgan Heritage Coast are just a few of the many adventure hotspots waiting to be explored.

Outdoor adventures here cater to all levels of experience and energy. Beginners can enjoy gentle paddleboarding sessions or guided hikes, while seasoned adventurers might take on rugged mountain biking trails, rock climbing routes, or even coasteering along wild coastal cliffs. Many centres offer expert instruction and equipment hire, making it easy to try something new or improve your skills. Families, couples, and solo travellers will all find exciting ways to connect with nature and enjoy South Wales’ wilder side. From land to sea and everything in between, outdoor adventure in South Wales promises fresh perspectives, big views, and plenty of adrenaline.

Cliff jumping in the Brecon Beacons is one example of active outdoors activities in South Wales.

Featured Outdoor Adventures Experiences

Ystradfellte Four Waterfalls, Brecon Beacons
££

Prices from:
£101.00

Explore Waterfall Country in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with this nine-mile hike including…

Abergavenny Kayak Tour
£££

Prices from:
£80.00

Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure near Abergavenny, paddling three miles along the peaceful Brecon…

All Outdoor Adventures Experiences

FREE
Penarth Marina Entrance
Active Outdoors | Dog Friendly | Family Friendly

Penarth Marina

Penarth Marina is a scenic waterfront with boats, restaurants and walking…

Read More
£
Lido Ponty
Family Friendly | Sport in South Wales

Swimming at Lido Ponty

Enjoy swimming at Lido Ponty in Pontypridd, with three heated outdoor…

Read More
££
Ystradfellte Four Waterfalls, Brecon Beacons
Active Outdoors | Natural Wales

Guided Brecon Beacons 4 Waterfalls Hike (From Cardiff)

Explore Waterfall Country in the Brecon Beacons National Park, with this…

Read More
£££
Abergavenny Kayak Tour
Active Outdoors | Natural Wales

Abergavenny Mountains & Countryside Kayaking Tour (3-Mile)

Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure near Abergavenny, paddling three miles…

Read More
FREE
Henrhyd Falls, Brecon Beacons
Natural Wales | Active Outdoors | Dog Friendly

Henrhyd Falls

Visit Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales, nestled on the…

Read More
££
Steep Holm Boat Trip from Cardiff Bay
Active Outdoors | Natural Wales

Steep Holm Island Boat Trip from Cardiff Bay

Enjoy a spectacular boat trip from Cardiff Bay to Steep Holm island in the…

Read More
FREE
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, near Penarth in the Vale of Glamorgan
Dog Friendly | Family Friendly | Active Outdoors

Cosmeston Lakes Country Park

Cosmeston Lakes is a nature reserve with lakes, woodland trails, wildlife,…

Read More
FREE
Monknash Beach, Vale of Glamorgan
Active Outdoors | Dog Friendly | Natural Wales

Monknash Beach

Monknash Beach is a secluded Vale of Glamorgan beach with dramatic cliffs,…

Read More
FREE
Alexandra Park, Penarth
Active Outdoors | Natural Wales | Dog Friendly

Alexandra Park

Alexandra Park in Penarth is a scenic green space with landscaped gardens,…

Read More
FREE
Bute Park, Cardiff
Active Outdoors | Family Friendly | Natural Wales

Bute Park

Bute Park in Cardiff is a historic riverside park with woodland trails,…

Read More
FREE
Amazing image of South Wales coming soon!
Active Outdoors | Dog Friendly | Family Friendly

Dare Valley Country Park

Dare Valley Country Park in Aberdare offers scenic walking trails,…

Read More
FREE
Penarth Beach & Pier, Vale of Glamorgan
Natural Wales | Dog Friendly

Penarth Beach

Penarth Beach offers scenic views, a historic pier with a pavilion, and…

Read More

Stay up to date

Sign up for the South Wales Guide newsletter to receive inspiration in your inbox for days & nights out, offers, competitions, trip planning ideas, and plenty more!

Newsletter subscribe photo