The south of Wales is often characterised by its industrial south east and its urban centres, but further west you will find a picture postcard coastline of sandy coves and dramatic cliff faces.
More than half of Wales’ population live in the industrial landscapes and urban centres of the South East, which include Wales’ two largest cities of Swansea and Europe’s youngest capital city Cardiff. Wales’ capital, like other capital cities, is a vibrant centre for arts, culture and sport and much recent regeneration has really put Cardiff on the European stage.
Industry is an important part of Wales’ heritage and at one time the country was the largest exporter of coal in the world. It’s an industry that formed the life blood of the country up until this Century and this is recognised in the small former mining town of Blaenafon, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s ‘Big Pit’ mining museum is one of the most interesting attractions in Britain.
Getting away from the hustle and bustle, the Gower Peninsula below Swansea, may as well be another country, in another era. It’s a remote place of upland moors and scenic coastline. Further west Pembrokeshire virtually is another country, referred to as 'little England beyond Wales', due to its history of colonisation. But you won’t find a better coastline in England than along the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with white sandy beaches, cliff stacks and breakneck waves.
Though South Wales is the most populated area only a tiny proportion speak Welsh, found in quiet enclaves in Carmarthenshire.
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