South Wales at a Glance
- Features two stunning National Parks: the Pembrokeshire Coast and the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog).
- The perfect destination for world-class coastal walks, mountain hiking, and incredible stargazing.
- Home to an official International Dark Sky Reserve, ideal for watching the Milky Way from your hot tub.
- A true paradise for dog-friendly holidays, with endless trails for you and your pet.
- Surprisingly accessible, at only 3 hours' drive from London or 2 from Birmingham.
Why Choose South Wales for a Hot Tub Break?
A hot tub holiday in South Wales offers the incredible "best of both worlds" – a place where world-class beaches meet mythic mountain ranges. This is a region defined by its two stunning National Parks, giving you the choice between epic coastal adventures and tranquil mountain escapes.
After a day spent walking the cliffs of Pembrokeshire or hiking in the Brecon Beacons, you can return to your own private retreat. Sinking into the warm, bubbling waters of a hot tub, surrounded by this incredible landscape, is an experience you won't forget.
The Pembrokeshire Coast: A Coastal Paradise
This is home to the UK's only coastal National Park, a breathtaking stretch of golden sands, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves. At its heart is the impossibly picturesque harbour town of Tenby. A stay here is all about beach days, coastal path walks, and fresh seafood in a cosy pub.
The Brecon Beacons: A Mountain Adventure
Inland, the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park offers a different kind of wild beauty. This is a landscape of rolling green hills, dramatic peaks like Pen y Fan, and the famous "Waterfall Country." It's a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and stargazers.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
South Wales is a dream destination for a holiday with your dog. With the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path and the endless trails of the Brecon Beacons, you'll never run out of spectacular walks. Our collection features a fantastic choice of pet-friendly properties, so your four-legged friend is always welcome.
Romantic Retreats & Stargazing
For couples, the region offers the perfect blend of adventure and seclusion. The Brecon Beacons is an International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Choosing a lodge here with a hot tub offers the truly magical, romantic experience of watching the Milky Way from the warm, bubbling water.
Top Things to See and Do in South Wales
- Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path: You don't have to walk all 186 miles. A short circular walk from Tenby or Bosherston (to Barafundle Bay) offers some of the best scenery.
- Hike Pen y Fan: Ascend the highest peak in South Britain, located in the Brecon Beacons, for unforgettable 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and reservoirs.
- Explore Tenby: Wander the medieval town walls, explore the narrow cobbled streets, and relax on one of the three stunning Blue Flag beaches of this picture-perfect harbour town.
- Visit a Great Castle: South Wales is rich in history. Choose from the magnificent Caerphilly Castle (one of Britain's largest) or the stunningly located Pembroke Castle, the birthplace of Henry VII.
- Discover Waterfall Country: In the Brecon Beacons, follow the marked trails to discover a series of breathtaking waterfalls, including the famous Sgwd yr Eira, which you can walk behind.
Planning Your South Wales Holiday
The Best Time to Visit
Summer is perfect for beach holidays in Pembrokeshire and enjoying the lively atmosphere in towns like Tenby. However, spring and autumn are arguably the best times for walkers, offering cooler temperatures, spectacular seasonal colours, and quieter trails in both National Parks.
A winter break is ideal for a cosy retreat and offers the clearest skies for stargazing.
Getting There and Around South Wales
South Wales is very accessible. The M4 motorway runs directly from London and the South of England to Cardiff, Swansea, and into Pembrokesa.
A car is highly recommended for exploring the rural areas, as many of the best walks, beaches, and lodges are located away from main public transport routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Pembrokeshire and the Brecon Beacons?
Pembrokeshire is all about the coast. It's a National Park defined by its stunning beaches, seaside towns like Tenby, and the 186-mile coastal path. The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) is an inland National Park, defined by its rolling mountains, dramatic waterfalls, and wide-open moorlands.
How far is South Wales from major UK cities?
South Wales is surprisingly accessible. From London, you can reach Cardiff in around 3 hours by car. From Bristol, it's about 1 hour to Cardiff and around 2 hours to Tenby. From Birmingham, it's approximately 2 hours to the Brecon Beacons.
Is South Wales good for a short break or weekend away?
Yes, it's perfect for a short break. You can easily focus on one area, such as a weekend exploring the beaches of Tenby and the South Pembrokeshire coast, or a 3-night hiking and stargazing trip to the Brecon Beacons.
Are there many dog-friendly lodges in South Wales?
Absolutely. South Wales is one of our most popular destinations for pet owners. Our hand-picked collection includes a fantastic variety of dog-friendly lodges, cottages, and cabins, many with enclosed gardens, giving you a great choice of bases to explore the coast and mountains.
Can I see the Milky Way from my hot tub in South Wales?
Yes! The Brecon Beacons National Park is an official International Dark Sky Reserve, offering some of the best stargazing in the world. By choosing one of our secluded lodges in this area, you have a genuinely incredible chance to sit back in your hot tub and watch the Milky Way light up the night sky.