Carmarthen

Ancient castles and Roman settlements once defined this stretch of the Towy Valley, but today's Carmarthen moves at a gentler pace. The market town's Georgian streets slope down towards the river, while the surrounding Carmarthenshire countryside unfolds in layers of green hills and hidden lakes. Markets still happen twice weekly, keeping alive traditions that stretch back centuries.

Getting here from Cardiff takes just over an hour by car, following the M4 then cutting north through increasingly rural scenery. The town sits perfectly for exploring some of Wales's most overlooked natural spots. River Dulas offers proper countryside walking, while Llyn Uchaf and Llyn Canol provide those mirror-still lake moments that make you forget about city stress. Waun Las National Nature Reserve protects some genuinely rare bog habitat - not everyone's cup of tea, but the wildlife here is exceptional.

Culture vultures will find galleries dotted around the area. The Ghost Forest and Osmunda Living Fossil offer contemporary takes on ancient landscapes, while Tawr and The Dragonfly showcase local artists. The Double Walled Garden provides a more traditional escape, especially lovely in late spring.

What makes staying at one of the nearby parks work so well is the access it gives you to both town amenities and proper countryside. Several glamping options like Route 47 Glamping and Erwain Escapes put you right in the landscape, while traditional sites offer simpler pleasures. The Fairy Wood and various forest walks are practically on your doorstep, perfect for early morning rambles before the day trippers arrive.