Established over 50 years ago near Port Talbot, Afan Forest Park is a seasoned tourist destination – one with the potential to be joined by a landscape-changing 600-lodge resort, as David James writes.
Nestled in the Afan Valley of Port Talbot, Afan Forest Park (Afan Argoed in Welsh) has been a popular destination since its opening in 1972. This stunning alpine forest is perched on mountainous terrain, offering breathtaking views across the valleys and a treasure trove of scenic trails for both hikers and cyclists. The area also boasts rich cultural heritage, with Pontrhydyfen – childhood home of both Richard Burton and Anthony Hopkins! – nearby.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a well-deserved break at the cosy on-site café, or delve into the local mining history at the Miners’ Museum, passionately curated by a dedicated volunteer group deeply connected to the region’s mining past. The Museum, officially opened in 1976, holds the distinction of being Wales’ first mining museum. It features a comprehensive underground tour indoors, while the outdoor exhibits include a Blacksmith’s Shop, a Lamp Room, and an Engine House complete with working miniature steam train.
The park offers an array of trails tailored to various fitness levels. The Rookie Walk is an easy, accessible route perfect for all visitors. The Old Parish Road Walk offers seating areas along a historic railway bustling in the 1920s. True to its name, the River & Railway Walk crosses water and follows an old train line, while the Gyfylchi Ridgetop Trail is a more challenging hike through lush woodlands, rewarding adventurers with spectacular valley vistas.
Regarding the potential future of the area, a proposal for a new development – variously known as the Afan Valley Resort or Wildfox Adventure Resort – is in the planning stages, after the 2020 approval of a master plan. Led by Powell Dobson, the proposal suggests transforming the site into a leading leisure destination by 2027, and plans include 600 lodges, a 130-bed hotel and a spa, set amidst an array of adventure activities designed to blend with the natural environment.
The Wildfox Resorts Group’s proposal includes the creation of facilities such as a pool, rapids and a canyon, all designed to maximise views of the surrounding landscape. The planned resort seeks to offer activities including wild swimming, mountain biking and bouldering, along with a comprehensive wellness program.
Situated at the southern edge of Afan Forest Park, approximately seven miles northeast of Port Talbot, the resort hopes to connect local communities such as Cymmer, Caerau, Croeserw and Duffryn Rhondda. This project is projected to create over 1,000 jobs and inject £30 million into the local economy.
The development aims to align with Welsh Government policies to promote renewable energy technology and sustainability. Neath Port Talbot Council envisions that the Wildfox Resort could pioneer new standards in sustainable tourism.
However, it is important to note that such proposals have been put forward in the past with varying outcomes, and the realisation of this project remains subject to future developments and approvals.
Info: afanforestpark.com
words DAVID JAMES
