South Wales Heritage – Gardens, Coast and Countryside

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then to the Holiday Inn Newport, or Heritage Park Hotel, Merthyr in South Wales for four nights.

Today it’s time to discover the outstanding natural beauty of the Gower Peninsula with our knowledgeable local guide, firstly stopping off at the Gower Heritage Centre, a rural life museum based around a working 12th century water mill.

Passing the ancient sandstone ridge of Cefn Bryn, known locally as the 'backbone of the Gower', and the atmospheric Neolithic burial chamber of Arthur’s Stone, we’ll enjoy spectacular views over Rossili Beach, Worms’ Head and Three Cliffs Bay voted the second best view in Britain before heading for the village of Mumbles to take a stroll along the promenade that takes you onto the pier and its fabulous Italian ice cream parlours.

Browse the shops including the local Mumbles Pottery or the Lovespoon Gallery to stock up on some great souvenirs. Alternatively enjoy the splendid sea views from one of the outdoor cafes and watch the world go by.

Enjoy a full day out to Capital Cardiff. Although founded by the Romans 2000 years ago, Cardiff is essentially a young city and has seen immense change over the past decade but still retains a wealth of historic buildings, including the city centre castle. The results of this change can be seen at the Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Bay – one of Europe’s most exciting waterfront developments.

We end the day with a visit to the Royal Mint Experience on the outskirts of Cardiff. This interactive museum explains how coins are produced. See the coins being minted and learn the fascinating history of this everyday piece of our lives.

Today it’s time to learn about Black Gold and explore the history of the Welsh coal industry starting at the Big Pit, the famous industrial heritage museum. Relive a bygone age as you don essential mining equipment - helmet, cap lamp and air purifying 'self rescuer' before being lowered down the mineshaft for the fascinating underground tour led by real miners.

Then sample more of the spirit of Wales at the Penderyn Distillery nestled in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, learning how the award winning single malt whisky is produced and at the end of the tour test the mouth watering products in the Tasting Bar.

Before returning to the hotel there’s time to visit the Rhondda Heritage Park, for a second Welsh Mining Experience and an insight into the life of a different coal mining community of the Lewis Merthyr Colliery.

Return home.