Embark on the breathtaking Valeways Millennium Trail, a circular journey through the enchanting Vale of Glamorgan in South Wales. This diverse trail showcases rolling farmland, historic sites, and the stunning Glamorgan Heritage Coast.

Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages like Monknash and Llantwit Major, before reaching the picturesque village of Llanblethian. Here, you can explore its quaint stone cottages, visit the beautiful medieval St Quentin's Church, and marvel at the historic St Quentin's Castle. The trail concludes with visits to local gems like The Knap, Romilly Park, and Dyffryn Gardens before returning to the starting point in St Fagan's.

The crowning glory of this remarkable journey lies in the captivating allure of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. This coastal marvel in South Wales is a veritable treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting majestic cliffs, hidden coves, and awe-inspiring vistas that overlook the Bristol Channel.

Along the route, there are plenty of small towns and villages where you can indulge in the delights of traditional Welsh food and real ales. The Old Swan Inn in Llantwit Major and The Plough and Harrow in Monknash are both notable pubs with a nice old country feel to them. I’d also recommend a detour to the attractive market town of Cowbridge where there are endless cafés and eateries as well as independent shops and a riverside park.

Rest assured, the carefully planned Tours always commence and conclude in locations offering accommodation options or convenient bus connections. As this trail winds mostly through rural countryside, pre-planning and booking are essential to ensure a seamless experience.

The official Valeways Millennium Trail is 65 miles (105 km). However, as this Collection includes detours to some worthy highlights and accommodation, the distance totals 72 miles (116 km). I’ve divided this Collection into six stages, each between 7 and 17 miles (11.3 - 27.4 km). The journey starts in St Fagans, which is accessible by car or the 32 bus from Cardiff. Alternatively, you could begin your journey in any of the busier towns or villages, such as Barry and Llantwit Major, which have superb bus and train access.

Designed for the general hiker, this journey doesn't present daunting mountains or challenging paths, making it accessible and enjoyable for all. The route can be hiked at any time of the year, and each season has its own charm. It's optimal between April and September, when longer sunlit days showcase the rural scenery adorned with blooming wildflowers and vibrant green rolling hills. As you would with any Welsh hike, bring your waterproofs and a decent pair of shoes that can survive the boggy ground, just in case. In the summer months, don’t forget to bring sunscreen.