Situated just to the East of the uber-popular Afan valley is this lesser known Welsh valley with a stunning landscape and a cracking little mountain bike venue. The old mining town of Blaengarw, right at the end of the valley is where the Darren Fawr trails start from. With the lake, forests and expansive grassy meadows, this little corner of South Wales has a distinctly alpine feel about it. Parking is easy next to the lake and from there you can jump straight into the action. 

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Leave the M4 at Junction 36 and head North on the A4061. After about a third of a mile turn left onto the A4065 then shortly after take a right onto the A4064. Keep your eye out for the signs to Blaengarw. Once in the town keep driving through until you see the valley open up with the lake to your left and head down onto Railway Terrace. The entrance to the car park is half way along this street.

Sat Nav users use this postcode: CF32 8AT