So you know about Snowdonia, the Gower and the Beacons, and the Pembrokeshire Coast needs little introduction. But how about the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Path? Starting from Cardiff Bay's regenerated waterfront and spanning 35 miles westwards to the seaside kitsch of Porthcawl, this stretch of Wales' recently opened national trail takes in some of the country's most spectacular scenery. The sweeping golden beaches of Whitmore Bay, the famous sand dunes of Merthyr Mawr, the innumerable charming clifftop villages – it's a wonder the area isn't positively overrun with holidaymakers year round. But hey, we're not complaining, and lucky for us we've found the perfect coastal campsite base to explore this magnificent region.
Glyn and Philippa George know a thing or two about hospitality. Having run their successful five-star B&B to much acclaim, the Georges decided to share their stunning corner of Monknash with the canvas contingent. Opening up the adjoining brook-side paddock for a trial 28 days a couple of years back, the response was so overwhelming that the ever-generous (as you'll soon discover) Glyn and Philippa realised it would be a shame to keep it to themselves. And so Heritage Coast Campsite was born.
This tent and campervan only spot has space for just 16 privileged pitches spread across two paddocks on soft, level grass. With uninterrupted views of undulating Glamorgan hills and the sparkling Bristol Channel, you can almost hear the "oo ar"s from Devon on a clear day. Facilities are second to none, with a brand new stables block housing all the expected, immaculately clean ablutions and a fully licensed café – Teddy's Bar & Kitchen – that serves all the grub you need, from your morning cuppa and bagel right through to a sunset beer from one of Glamorgan's local breweries. The resulting campsite is a thoroughly chilled out, family-friendly site (not one for the stag or hen do!), with views to savour, a brook to meditate beside and, of course, that breathtaking coastal path to pick up. Pretty much ticks all the boxes then, eh?