Coed Alltacham

Coed Alltacham, an area of outstanding native woodland located on the steep sides of Llanguicke Hill overlooking the small town of Pontardawe. There is a network of paths climbing to the summit where the 13th century Llangiwg Church, amongst the oldest in Wales stands. A rocky outcrop known locally as Elephant Rock provides a natural view point across the Swansea valley.

  Another quirky and icon feature is known as the ‘Hundred steps’ (there’s actually nearly 200!).   “At school in Pontardawe in the 1970s there was a challenge for sporty types. It was called the 100 steps. Pontardawe Technical School, which Edwards attended years before, had been consumed by Cwmtawe Comprehensive School by then. But the steps running from a road alongside the school in a crooked concrete switchback remained, snaking through the woods to Pontardawe Golf Club on the mountain. They were the steps that Edwards – we were told – used to run up under the tutelage of sports master Bill Samuel. They were the steps all-comers had to conquer in one lung-busting, leg pummelling effort. There were a lot more than 100, by the way. Imagine being able to play football where Pele practised or drive the same track as Jackie Stewart. It was that special. BBC Owls, Red Kites, and  badgers are just a few of the many wildlife species that call it their home. Access via the many public footpaths located along new road.