From Chepstow to Swansea, South Wales Attractions

From Chepstow there is an attractive trip northwards up the Wye Valley. After approximately 3mi/5km turn left into a side road and follow this to its end; from here it is a fifteen minute climb to the top of Wyndcliff (800ft/244m), with its panoramic views. The charming landscape here is well known for its variety of fauna.

From Wyndcliff return to the main road and continue for 2mi/3km north to reach the attractive ruins of Tintern Abbey, whose appearance inspired William Wordsworth, the "Lake Poet", to write some of his poetry. The abbey is situated on the west bank of the meandering Wye and was founded in 1131 by Walter de Clare for the Cistercian order. The church is in the Decorated style (1270-1325) and measures 228ft/69.5m long. Like many other churches, Tintern Abbey fell victim to Henry VIII's secularization. However, even if the roof, central tower and north wall of the nave have disappeared, the remaining majestic arches with richly embellished tracery on the windows nevertheless present a notable appearance and this has been captured in a number of very idyllic paintings by artists including William Turner. An exhibition in the adjoining visitors' center explains how the monks used to live.

Situated at Caerwent (4mi/6km west of Chepstow) is Wales' best-preserved Roman site. The excavated tribal capital Venta Silurum gives an excellent impression of Roman town planning, since parts of the walls, amphitheater, baths, shops and town gates have survived from that time. The parish church contains a mosaic and the tomb of a Roman officer.

Prehistoric traces have been found on the Llan-melin, a wooded hill, which was probably the main town of Siluria before the founding of Venta Silurum (2.5mi/4km northwest of Caerwent).

All that remains of the former Caldicot Castle (2.5mi/4km southwest of Caerwent), built in the reign of Edward I, is the massive Norman round tower, now housing a museum.The present Caldicot Castle was restored as a family home by a wealthy Victorian. Visitors can explore its medieval walls and towers, as well as stroll through peaceful gardens and woodland. Picnic area, barbecues.

Newport/Casnewydd (pop. 133,000), an important port and Wales' third-largest town, lies at the mouth of the River Usk. At high tide the waters of the Severn Estuary can rise by up to 30ft/9.15m here, so the bridges over the Usk - there are five in Newport - have been built especially high. This port and industrial town is home to large chemical and aluminum works.

Follow the banks of the Usk for 3mi/5km northwest of Newport to reach the suburb of Caerleon, called Isca Silurum by the Romans.

Porthcawl (pop. 15,625) is a seaside resort.