Parc Cwm Darran

Parc Cwm Darran by Jeremy Bolwell at www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2491687

Parc Cwm Darran by Robin Drayton at www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1880759

As you can probably tell, we like our waterside walks! Parc Cwm Darran near Bargoed has a large man-made lake and even a small waterfall. The council have created a number of trails you can do on their website  http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside/parks/parc-cwm-darran. It's a great place to visit in the Spring/Summer; you and your dog can stroll through the pretty wild flower meadows while slurping a 99 from the seasonal cafe. Winter walks at Cwm Darran are quieter, but Townies beware - it will feel about 20 degrees colder than home so wrap up warm and take a thermos!

Useful Info

Pay & display parking
Wheelchair and buggy friendly
Seasonal cafe/visitor centre
Camping

Parc Taf Bargoed

Parc Taf Bargoed - image from www.visitmerthyr.co.uk

A recent discovery for us, Parc Taf Bargoed is just a ten minute drive from Parc Penallta, and a lovely spot to enjoy a hot roll and a cuppa after a walk! It's home to the local angling and canoe clubs, as well as being popular with cyclists and horse riders. The park seems very community driven; there's a new Pavillion where visitors can learn about the history and wildlife of the park. There are play areas for children, a lakeside activity centre, and volunteer wardens. Their website  http://www.visitmerthyr.co.uk/attractions/parc-taf-bargoed.aspx is very informative, with up-to-date news on park projects. Parc Taf Bargoed is a little-known gem that we will be visiting lots in future!

Useful Info

Free parking
Toilets
Wheelchair and buggy friendly
Seasonal kiosk
Visitor centre
Activities
Play areas

Parc Penallta

 Sultan the pit pony at Parc Penallta - image from www.visitwales.com

Sorry about the slow start! I don't know where this month has gone, but I'm hoping to post lots of walks today to make up for it ^-^

Another favourite of ours, Parc Penallta can be found between Ystrad Mynach and Nelson. I didn't realise just how big it was on our first visit there. It's huge! There are lots of paths to take, flat ones and hilly ones, so each visit there can be different. There are two entrances that I know of, though there may be more. The biggest car park is the one signposted near the Caerphilly council offices. The other quieter car park is just along from the Rowan Tree pub on the A472. Both car parks are unfortunately pay and display - we've met a few park users who have emailed the council to complain. Nonetheless it's still a great walk, with sculptures to make it interesting, and ponds for your dog to splash in.

http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/countryside/parks/parc-penallta

Useful Info:
Pay & Display Parking
Wheelchair & Buggy Friendly