Neath

The River Neath cuts a dramatic path through some of Wales' most spectacular limestone country, creating a landscape where waterfalls tumble into hidden caves and ancient stone circles dot the moorland. This corner of the Brecon Beacons feels properly wild - Fan Fawr and Fan Dringarth rise like sleeping giants above valleys carved by glaciers and rushing water.

Cavers flock here for good reason. Porth yr Ogof draws the crowds with its impressive resurgence, but venture further and you'll find Little Neath River Cave and Bridge Cave offering quieter underground adventures. The Tradesman's Entrance might sound mundane, but it's anything but - this cave system rewards those willing to get their boots muddy.

Above ground, the walking is superb. Fan Nedd offers cracking views across the Black Mountain, while the trek to Maen Llia reveals one of Wales' finest standing stones. Craig y Llyn provides a gentler option with rewarding vistas, and Ystradfellte Reservoir makes for a peaceful lunch stop.

Getting here requires a bit of planning. The A470 from Merthyr Tydfil is your best bet, though the final approach involves some proper country lanes. Brecon serves as the nearest proper town for supplies and train connections.

Staying at one of the local campsites puts you right in the heart of waterfall country. Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park offers a good base, while the various glamping options like Aber Glamping mean you can wake up surrounded by the Beacons without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for those dawn starts when the peaks emerge from the morning mist.