Ammanford

Former mining communities don't get much more authentic than this corner of the Amman Valley. The pit wheels may be long gone, but Ammanford still carries the spirit of its industrial past - you'll find it in the sturdy Victorian terraces climbing the hillsides and the fierce local pride that keeps the Miners' Theatre running strong.

Glynhir Golf Club offers proper championship-standard golf with views that stretch across the valley floor. It's a challenging course that demands respect, especially when the Welsh weather turns. The clubhouse serves decent grub too.

Railway buffs will appreciate having both Ammanford and Llandybie stations within easy reach - the Heart of Wales line cuts through some spectacular countryside on its way to Swansea. Walking country surrounds the town on all sides. Pant-y-Llyn Turlough makes for a peaceful stroll, while the broader landscape rolls away towards the Brecon Beacons.

Several churches dot the area, from the historic Llandyfan Church to the imposing Our Lady of the Rosary RC Church. Each tells part of the story of this tight-knit community.

Staying at one of the local holiday parks puts you right in proper Wales - no tourist traps, just real countryside and genuine Welsh hospitality. The River View Touring Park and Towy Valley Caravan Park offer easy access to both the town's amenities and the walking trails that snake through the surrounding hills. It's a 40-minute drive to Swansea when you need proper city facilities, but honestly, you might find everything you need right here.