TEN EASY BUS BASED WALKS TO ENJOY IN THE NEATH PORT TALBOT VALLEYS

Only a few minutes’ ride by bus from the centre of Neath or Port Talbot and you can be in unspoiled countryside of great beauty, rich in wildlife:  birds - ducks and waders, insects, wildflowers...

...And yet look closer and you may often be somewhere where only a few decades ago there was huge industrial activity – busy railway lines serving coal mines, canals carrying loaded barges of coal and ore. Where industry once thrived, nature now flourishes, creating a special kind of landscape where natural beauty and industrial history can be seen side by side.

Old railway lines and canal embankments now make lovely level walking routes. The ten short walks suggested here make use of parkland and woodland footpaths, trails and canal towpaths now available for the walker and naturalist. There’s also woodland and a fine cascades. By using the bus you don’t need to retrace your steps to a parked car and you will be amazed how easy it all is. There’s usually somewhere for refreshment whilst awaiting your return bus home.

For all these walks you need strong shoes or trainers – even towpaths can be muddy after rain – and you should carry rainwear, a spare sweater and something to drink. A light rucksack or shoulder bag keeps your hands free – and take a camera for that pretty view or to capture that fleeting moment of passing wildlife.

Check your outward and bus times before you travel either on the web site links shown in the text, or via Traveline Cymru  0871 200 22 33 or text 84268