South Wales is the kind of place that rewards return visits. Maybe you've already walked the cliffs of the Gower Peninsula, explored Cardiff's castle, or driven through the Brecon Beacons. But this is a region that always has more to give – more hidden corners, more history, more surprises tucked between valleys and along its coast.

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth stay in South Wales, here are some things to do and see. We hope these give you some fresh ideas for your next South Wales getaway!

If you haven’t yet wandered through Tenby, now’s the time. This walled seaside town in Pembrokeshire is all pastel houses, sandy beaches, and narrow lanes that are perfect for aimless exploring. Even if you’ve visited before, try seeing it from a new angle – perhaps with a boat trip to Caldey Island, where monks live a peaceful life just offshore. It’s the perfect day out from one of our holiday homes in South Wales.

Cowbridge, just west of Cardiff, is one of South Wales’ underrated gems. It blends boutique shopping with local food, charming Georgian buildings, and a surprisingly lively café and wine bar scene. If you're looking for a base that combines countryside calm with town comforts, it’s well worth considering when browsing last-minute stays in South Wales.

The Brecon Beacons (now officially Bannau Brycheiniog) are often seen as a hiker’s haven, but there’s plenty to enjoy at a gentler pace. Think scenic drives, canal boat rides in Brecon, or exploring Llandeilo, a colourful market town with artsy vibes, independent shops, and a castle just down the road. It's a fantastic option if you're booking a countryside holiday let in South Wales.

Laugharne is where poet Dylan Thomas lived, wrote, and found inspiration. You can tour The Boathouse, where he spent his final years, and sit in his writing shed overlooking the estuary. It’s a peaceful, poetic spot – ideal for slow travel or creative retreats. 

The Gower Peninsula is well known, but there are still plenty of places that feel quiet and untouched. While Rhossili and Three Cliffs Bay are the headliners, try Oxwich, Pwll Du, or Llangennith for something a bit different.

Often described as a fairy-tale castle, Castell Coch is perched on a hillside just outside Cardiff. It’s a 19th-century Gothic Revival creation – more fantasy than fortress – but the interiors are truly jaw-dropping. A great option for a half-day adventure if you’re staying in one of our luxury holiday homes in South Wales.

Set within 1,000 acres of parkland near Port Talbot, Margam Country Park is home to a beautiful Tudor-Gothic mansion, deer herds, ornamental gardens, and woodland trails. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers looking to reconnect with nature. And it's an easy drive from many of our last-minute holiday homes in South Wales.

Most people explore Cardiff on foot – but for a fresh perspective, hop on the water taxi that runs between Cardiff Bay and the city centre. It’s a fun way to see the skyline, the Principality Stadium, and the bay’s modern architecture from a new angle. It’s a nice bonus for anyone staying in or near the capital, especially if you're based in one of our luxury South Wales holiday lets.

Whether it’s the coast, the castles, or the culture that keeps drawing you back, South Wales is never short on surprises. Even if you’ve been before, chances are there’s a village you missed, a view you haven’t seen, or a slow afternoon still waiting to be had.

Looking for a new base to explore from? Discover our carefully selected holiday homes in South Wales. From cosy cottages to spacious family stays, you’ll find amazing deals on last-minute UK breaks and weekend escapes.