Wild Swimming Walks: South Wales – 28 Lake, River, Waterfall and Coastal Days Out in the Brecon Beacons, Gower and Wye Valley

Wild Swimming Walks: South Wales is an inspiring guide for anyone who wants to explore the wild beauty of Wales on foot and in the water. Written by Nia Lloyd Knott, it brings together 28 carefully chosen routes that combine memorable walks with swims in lakes, rivers, waterfalls and along the coast in the Brecon Beacons, Gower and Wye Valley. Each route is designed to help you slow down, immerse yourself in the landscape and experience South Wales in a more intimate, adventurous way.
The book opens with an introduction to wild swimming in South Wales, offering practical reassurance on safety, access and seasonal conditions. Nia explains how the region’s mountains, valleys and coastline create an incredible variety of swimming spots: deep plunge pools beneath waterfalls, calm river bends, upland lakes and sheltered bays where the sea feels inviting and alive. Her tone is warm, encouraging and rooted in local knowledge, so you feel like you’re being guided by someone who genuinely loves and understands these places.
Each of the 28 walks is clearly laid out with route descriptions, maps, swim notes and difficulty ratings. You’ll find information on distance, terrain, access, parking and the nature of each swim, whether it’s a short dip, a deeper pool or a more open stretch of water. The routes range from gentle family‑friendly outings to more demanding hikes that reward you with dramatic views and exhilarating swims. This variety makes the book suitable for both new wild swimmers and more experienced explorers.
In the Brecon Beacons, the walks showcase mountain scenery, high moorland and steep valleys where streams gather into waterfalls and pools. You might follow a river upstream to a series of cascades, or climb to a hidden lake tucked beneath a ridge. These routes capture the drama of the landscape while still feeling accessible and achievable, especially with the author’s clear guidance on paths, conditions and sensible precautions.
The Gower Peninsula brings a different kind of magic: sweeping beaches, rocky headlands, tidal pools and sheltered coves. Here, walks often combine clifftop paths with swims in the sea, allowing you to experience the coastline from multiple perspectives. The book highlights when tides and conditions matter most, helping you choose the right time to visit and enjoy the water safely.
In the Wye Valley and surrounding lowlands, the focus shifts to wooded gorges, meandering rivers and quieter corners where you can float, paddle or swim in more gentle surroundings. These routes are perfect for slower days, picnics and relaxed exploration, with plenty of opportunities to notice wildlife, geology and the changing light on the water.
What makes Wild Swimming Walks: South Wales particularly appealing is its balance of inspiration and practicality. The photography captures the atmosphere of each place—sunlight on water, mist over hills, the rich greens of Welsh valleys—while the text gives you everything you need to actually go there. Nia’s writing is grounded, honest and enthusiastic, encouraging you to respect the landscape, understand local conditions and build your confidence gradually.
Whether you live in South Wales, visit regularly or are planning a dedicated trip, this book offers a framework for unforgettable days out. It invites you to see familiar places differently, to seek out new corners of the map and to reconnect with the simple joy of walking to water and getting in. For walkers, swimmers, families and nature lovers, it’s a guide that will earn its place in your rucksack and on your bookshelf.
This page contains affiliate links. Amori Travel may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.