A new circular walk taking in the delights of the countryside around Pontypridd has been officially launched.
Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Mayor, Cllr Robert Smith (pictured above with local MP, Dr Kim Howells) launched the Pontypridd Circular Walk with a map plaque at Barry Sidings Countryside Park, Trehafod. The plaque reveals the route around the hills above the town, which provides a new view of the town and includes countryside links between different parts of Pontypridd.
The walk passes through ancient woods, open common, moorland, farmland and pasture, crossing the rivers Taff and Rhondda. It climbs to panoramic vantage points for views across the valleys to the sea and to the Brecon Beacons.
Cllr Smith, said: “The Pontypridd Circular Walk celebrates the fantastic scenery on our doorstep. It’s a great way to introduce visitors to our countryside and remind those of us who live here how lucky we are. Each section of the walk has its own character and once you start, you’ll want to explore them all!”
New green signs mark the walk, which is 12 miles or 18 kilometres in total, with about 2,750 feet (847m) of ascent. Trehafod and Trefforest rail stations are close to the route.
From Barry Sidings, the route through the Forestry Commission’s Gelliwion woodlands takes you to Maesycoed, with links to the town centre and bus or train to return.
Copies of the Pontypridd Circular Walk leaflet are available in libraries, on the website www.destinationrct.co.uk or by calling 01443 400563.
The walk has been developed by the Countryside Section of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council with grant aid from the Countryside Council for Wales and is supported by a management agreement with the Forestry Commission Wales for the section of route on FCW land at Gelliwion.
From each area of Pontypridd, there are links to the town centre, so there are opportunities to explore short sections of the walk. A second map plaque, showing the route of the Pontypridd Circular Walk, is on display in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park.
