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You might already have a picture in your mind of what the Valleys are all about. It probably needs an update. We’d like to introduce you to the Valleys of today. And spring a few surprises along the way.

For a start, you won’t see a coalmine (unless it happens to be a heritage centre). What you will see are lakes, forests, open hillsides and green mountains. They’re all part of a unique, roller-coaster landscape of hills and vales dotted with friendly towns and villages.

Here’s another surprise. The world is just waking up to the fact that the Valleys are home to a captivating choice of attractions and places to visit. Like Caerphilly Castle, one of the finest medieval monuments in Europe. Or Blaenavon, a World Heritage Site. Not to mention country parks, forest drives, waterfalls and even narrow-gauge railways.

But don’t take our word for it. Listen to Nicole Cooke, World Champion cycling star, who loves climbing the Valleys’ scenic mountain roads as much as the alps of Italy or France. Or the Rough Guide, a travel publication renowned for its honesty and accuracy, which gives the Valley a top star rating..

So you’ll find that things have changed. But what hasn’t altered is that strong Valleys spirit. Valleys folk are genuinely warm and friendly.