Mynydd Gelliwion Walk

Barry Sidings Countryside Park in Trehafod, Pontypridd is the start of this 9.5 km walk.

Venture up into the forestry to the summit of Mynydd (mountain) Gelliwion to enjoy stunning views over the Rhondda valley.

There are some steep climbs within the walk, but the route is well marked and is popular with walkers, trail runners and mountain bikers. Suitable for all ages, this walk is great for getting back to nature and capturing panoramic views.

When you return to the start, explore Barry Sidings Countryside Park, which has a lake, children’s adventure playground, bike pump tracks and an award-winning café serving everything from shakes and dirty fries to burgers and vegan treats. It’s dog-friendly too.

Barry Sidings was reclaimed from the remains of the Rhondda’s world-famous coal mining industry. It sits on then railway sidings that once ran from nearby Lewis Merthyr Colliery to Barry Docks, transporting up to a million tonnes of coal a year. (Hence the name Barry Sidings)

The award-winning A Welsh Coal Mining Experience has been built on the site of the former Lewis Merthyr Colliery and contains many of its original workings, including the giant chimney that dominates the landscape. Men who worked in the coal mines of the Rhondda as boys are your guides for an unforgettable experience that brings our rich, industrial history to life.