Dan yr Ogof Showcaves and Campsite
View Map
Recommendation added: 30/04/2006 23:02
By: mirrired (YSUK rating +93)mirrired has been thanked 11 times for this contribution
"Dan yr Ogof Show caves and Campsite.
The Caves. Dan yr Ogof is a complex of caves situated at the head of the Swansea Valley. There are a couple of show caves open to the public. The most impressive is Cathedral Cave with it's huge cavern at the back. Weddings can now be held inside the cave with the Catheral Chamber as the backdrop.
The access to the caves is well prepared, but as there are several changes in levels and steps they are not readily accessible to prams or wheelchairs. Younger children can be carried in back-packs or slings.
Otherwise it is an extremely accessible introduction to the fascinating underground world that we are lucky to enjoy in Britain. There are audio commentaries available as you progress through the cave, and the interpretation of the features is excellent.
In addition to the cave complex there are numerous other attractions to keep everyone entertained. There is an iron age village (reproduction of), the largest dinosaur park in Europe (complete with eerie sound effects), a small farm with unusual breeds, the Millenium Stone Circle, the Shire Horse Centre, a café, museum and shop. There is also a new indoor playbarn for those wet days which occasionally occur down here in sunny south wales!
All of the above are included in the one ticket. £10 per adult, £6 per child. Group prices can be provided on application. (The website states that these prices are subject to change. My daughter took her Blue Peter badge and we received a discount, but I'm not sure how much for.
The Campsite
We stayed on the Campsite in during the first week in August 2004. Our group consisted of five adults, 4 children (aged 2-12) and two elderly border collie dogs. Our accommodation was two large dome tents, a vango two man and a large inflatable tent.
Our pitch was a large, flat, well-grassed area that allowed us plenty of space and privacy, yet was cosy enough for us to enjoy each-others company. I suggest that you need strong pegs, a mallet and a bit of patience. The ground is quite hard underneath the good layer of grass, which made pegging down a little testing, but not impossible. We managed to find enough space and soft ground to pitch all of out tents.
Another feature of the site is a good population of midges, however they are easily dealt with by using insect repellent. I can't stand the little critters, but they in no way spoilt my enjoyment of the holiday.
Facilities
The facilities at this campsite are incredible. The toilet and shower-block is immaculately clean and is heated 24 hours per day. This means a constant supply of water in the lovely fast flowing showers and no shivering when you get out. No need for a 5am dash to get some hot water here.
There are also excellent washing up facilities with constant hot water and a proper sink. A well organised waste disposal facility also enhances the camping experience.
General Atmosphere
This is a quiet, well organised family and hillwalkers campsite. It is not the place for noisy families and party peeps. Although the cave complex and other attractions are well attended, the site is away from the car-park and visitor centre. We had a lovely peaceful holiday with plenty of room for the children to run and play without annoying other campers.
The Swansea Valley scenery is absolutely stunning, and there is plenty to do in the immediate surroundings, high level walks, low level walks, pony trekking, Craig y Nos Castle, Craig y Nos Country Park, The Chimp Sanctuary, Henryd Falls and numerous pubs and eateries in Abercrave, Ystradgynlais and Pontardawe. These are just a few of the excellent activities on offer.
Camping Fees
For a caravan/motor home there is a minimum charge of £10 per night (for up to 2 people). If there are more people staying in the caravan/motor home an additional charge of £5 per adult per night, and £3 per child per night is applicable.
The cost for a tent is £5 per adult per night, and £3 per child per night.
Included in these prices are electrical hook-ups, showers, awnings etc., Dogs are allowed, but must be on a lead at all times within the site. If they make a 'mess' you know what to do!
For safety reasons cycling is not allowed within the site.
Bookings and Enquiries
by post:
The National Show caves Centre for Wales
Abercrave
Swansea
SA9 1GJ
by telephone:
01639 730 284
by email:
info@showcaves.co.uk"
Was this recommendation useful?
|
