Parc Penallta

About this place

Say hello to Sultan the Pit Pony! Parc Penallta near Ystrad Mynach is home to one of the biggest figurative earth sculptures in the country, a 200-metre-long tribute to the pit ponies who worked in the mines. And the park itself is built on a former coal tip, which makes it all the more amazing. Climb to the High Point Observatory for 360-degree views across the South Wales Valleys, then pick one of three waymarked walking trails from the main car park. Along the way you'll find a willow tunnel, sculptures and the Crannog Lake, plus the Events Arena, a great spot for flying a kite. Nature fans are spoilt here: orchids and dragonflies in early summer, wildflower meadows buzzing with butterflies and bees, goldfinches in autumn and starlings roosting in the reed beds in winter. Cyclists can follow National Cycle Network Route 47 through the lower part of the park. Good to know: the park is free. There's a compost toilet near the main car park and picnic tables by the Events Arena and Crannog Lake.