Caerphilly Castle and the town’s Big Cheese festival have been named two of Wales’ top attractions.
Rough Guide author Mike Parker was asked by the Valleys Heart and Soul campaign to create a list of the top 50 Valleys events, places and experiences.
People are being urged to vote for their favourite from Parker’s 50 unranked list to determine the ultimate Top 10 Valleys Essentials or if their favourite is missing to nominate it. The final list will be revealed in March 2011.
Mike said: “Fifty was a good number of sights to pick, for it gave me chance to highlight all of the many aspects that make The Valleys such a rewarding place to visit.
“There’s raw natural beauty in the shape of hulking mountains, glorious upland commons and thundering waterfalls. Or industrial heritage at some imposing remnants of the coal and iron industries, as well as many of the region’s best little nuggets tucked away well off the beaten track. The option to go back even further is everywhere too, by poking around ancient castles, stately homes or churches.
“There’s physical activity of all sorts, be it walking, running, mountain biking, swimming, climbing or caving. Eating and drinking too, of course – it would be churlish to ignore the area’s many fine options, from home-made Italian ice-cream to prize-winning whisky.”
The Valleys Heart and Soul is a three year campaign led by partnership organisations from the Western Valleys, Heads of the Valleys and The Valleys Partnership, and aims to change perceptions of The Valleys and bring long-term economic benefits to the area.
Voting is taking place online at www.thevalleys.co.uk where the full list of Valleys Essentials can be viewed.
Valleys Essentials in Caerphilly County Borough
- Caerphilly Castle
- Eglwysilan church, near Senghenydd
- Llancaiach Fawr, near Nelson
- Ruperra Castle, near Machen
- Gelligaer Common: Capel Gwladys, Maen Cattwg and walks
- Parc Penallta, Ystrad Mynach
- The Big Cheese, Caerphilly