Rhondda Tourist Information

The Rhondda Cynon Taf region epitomises the traditional Welsh Valleys, former coal mining towns with a rich heritage and strong sense of community.

Rising in the beautiful and remote upland hills and the Brecon Beacons National Park, the rivers and streams of the Rhondda, Cyon and Taff Valleys flow south through gorges and cascade over waterfalls in unspoilt natural countryside.

The rivers then travel on through the mining towns and villages that grew up rapidly in the 19th century as the area was exploited for its coal, literally the fuel of the industrial revolution.

These long 'ribbon' streets of Victorian terraced cottages snaking across the valleys still define the character of the region, particularly in towns such as Treorchy.

The area is especially known for its choir music and love of the Welsh national sport of Rugby. There are also some interesting historic market towns to visit such as Aberdare, Pontypridd and Llantrisant.