Torfaen is one of the smallest of the 22 counties of Wales, with an area of just 49 square miles, centered on the Afon Lwyd river, which flows south from the edge of the Brecon Beacons and joins the River Usk near Newport. The area was originally part of Monmouthshire, which borders to the east; it also adjoins Caerphilly and Blaenau Gwent to the west, and the county of Newport to the south. The southern reaches of Torfaen are quite developed, while the northern half is more rural, especially to the west of the river, where the land rises steeply to several high plateaus, including Coity Mountain, Mynydd Llanhilleth and Mynydd Maen.
There are no major historic sites in the county, but it does have a selection of nature reserves, and plenty of footpaths across the high ground.
There are no major historic sites in the county, but it does have a selection of nature reserves, and plenty of footpaths across the high ground.
 Small, remote wetland site enclosed by woodland, containing unusual plant species including two rare orchids Rating: ★★★★★ |