Hidden drive almost no one knows about like being in American national park

-Credit: (Image: Getty)
-Credit: (Image: Getty)


It may just be just a 10 minute drive from the M4, but hidden amongst 60ft trees and towering above nearby Cwmbran and Newbridge, Cwmcarn Forest is undoubtedly one of south Wales' best kept secrets. With its twisting road through the forest itself - becoming increasingly enchanting as the drive goes on - and its various breathtaking viewpoints, Cwmcarn shows off this part of Wales in a completely different light

If this isn't enough to tempt you to visit, it's perhaps the closest you'll get to feeling like you're in the vast national parks seen in America or Canada, with visitors describing it as feeling like they're in Yellowstone itself. While it may be a hidden gem to many, to those in the know it's a safe bet for a great day out, especially through the summer months.

Cwmcarn Forest (and drive) closed to cars in 2014 in order to fell thousands of diseased trees in the area only to re-open in 2021 after over £2m investment. Now, not only can visitors enjoy the scenic drive, take a leisurely stroll - or more challenging hike if they wish - but they can camp, cycle or even settle down for the afternoon at a viewpoint with a BBQ.

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With walks and rides ranging from one to nine miles - and some reaching heights of 400 meters - there is something for everyone, although it might be quite the feat at times. But perhaps the beauty of Cwmcarn, apart from the views of course, is that you can take it at your own pace. From challenging hill climbs up Twmbarlwm to gentle walks around the forest and valley floor, everyone can get involved. You can get more story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here.

There are numerous stops for a scenic picnic along the way -Credit:WalesOnline
There are numerous stops for a scenic picnic along the way -Credit:WalesOnline

You could easily spend the whole day at the site, or just make a quick pit stop to kill a few hours. There are seven car parks you can stop off at during the drive to absorb the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and picnic and BBQ spots to relax and take it easy. There is also a cafe on site if you left your picnic at home, as well as play areas for the little ones, and various trails to make it worth getting out of the car for.

If you've got the time, the Twmbarlwm walk is a particular highlight. Taking a few hours, this walk will take you to the top of the Iron Age hillfort of Twmbarlwm. According to Visit Wales it was once a centre for the Silurian Celts who fought a 25-year war with Rome. . From the top are stunning views, over Cardiff Bay to the south and towards the Brecon Beacons to the north.

From the trail you can see brilliant views over south Wales -Credit:WalesOnline
From the trail you can see brilliant views over south Wales -Credit:WalesOnline

For those who prefer life on two wheels rather than four, there's more than a few mountain bike trails to explore with Cwmcarn described as a "mountain biking paradise". There are three three mountain bike trails each with their own special qualities and a bike repair shop and lift service.

If that's climbing to altitudes over 400 metres on the Cafall trail which takes you to some of the most remote areas of the forest or the Twrch Trail with virtually the entire route on a purpose built single-track, riders must be experienced to give them a go, with both being marked as Red routes.

-Credit:Caerphilly County Borough Council
-Credit:Caerphilly County Borough Council

Equally, Y Mynydd Downhill track isn't for the faint-hearted either, as one of the best downhill venues in the UK Visit Wales say that the course is split into two runs, the 2-light run and the 3-light run, which merge about a third of the way down the mountain. The 2-light run is the easier of the two so that's the best place to start if its your first time. The 3-light run should be left to the more experienced rider as it's a bit steeper in places.

If one day at Cwmcarn isn't enough, there is also the option to stay on site, with accommodation sleeping up to 6 people per booking. There are lodges, glamping pods or camping pitches available to book.

There are various accommodation options available -Credit:Cwmcarn Forest
There are various accommodation options available -Credit:Cwmcarn Forest

Since re-opening three years ago, Cwmcarn has been getting rave reviews, but it still fairly unknown. One father of two young-children who visited during the summer said he had no idea Cwmcarn existed, despite being just half an hour away.

"I can't believe this place existed so close to where I live in Cardiff and I'd never been here — I'd never even heard of it.

"The views are sensational - the view from the top of the drive looking down over Risca, Cross Keys, Newport and the flat coastal land between Newport and Cardiff is one I've never seen before and never knew there was a place you could see it. It gave me whole new perspective on this part of Wales.

"The mix of scenery, forest, the sheer scale of it, as well as the ability to drive through it all at leisure and having plenty of places to stop for a picnic or even a barbecue en route, felt very much like driving through a great American national park like Yellowstone - minus the bears, of course.

"The regular playgrounds at various stops were perfect for a family with young children like mine. I can't speak highly enough of it. I loved every second of the day we spent there as a family and I think everyone responsible in making this amazing resource available to the people of Wales should take a bow."

Visitors will be able explore all seven miles of the new-look Forest Drive by car -Credit:Caerphilly County Borough Council
Visitors will be able explore all seven miles of the new-look Forest Drive by car -Credit:Caerphilly County Borough Council

Perhaps summing up the views of South Wales from the trail, one other visitor this summer said: "We found this place online and the photos don't do it justice." And another said: "Just 30 minutes from my home in Cardiff is Cwmcarn Forest Drive. It is labelled as one of the best-kept secrets of the Valleys.

"The Drive is 7 miles long and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete if you don’t stop at any of the car parks. The average visit is around 2-3 hours. Of course, you can stay longer. There are seven car parks where you can get out and enjoy the countryside or have a BBQ or picnic. Remember to bring the dogs; because they’ll love the Cwmcarn Forest Drive Park too!"

How to get to Cwmcarn Forest?

The address for Cwmcarn Forest is: Cwmcarn Forest Drive, Crosskeys, NP11 7FA

As you approach Cwmcarn Forest, please follow the signage for the site, as Satellite Navigation Systems will direct you to a local housing estate.

Public Transport

Bus

The most convenient bus stops are on Silver Street situated on Twyncarn Road in Pontywaun. These are on the main entrance road to Cwmcarn Forest.

Train

The nearest train station is Crosskeys, approximately a 15 minute walk from the Visitor Centre.

Cwmcarn Forest Drive opening times and prices

Easter – 31st October, 10am – 6pm (Last entry 4pm)

1st November – Easter, Weekends only, 10am – 4pm (Last entry 2pm)

Car £10.00

Minibus (1-16 seats) £18.50

Coach £35.00

Motorbike £5.00

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