Follow the postcode above and you’ll be guided straight to the Merthyr Mawr Warren car park, just along from the Glamorgan Lawn & Tennis Croquet Club. Once parked up, head through to the sandy haven awaiting you and take your pick of routes. We recommend the sandy path directly ahead – before long, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views on either side of the Ogmore River.
Keep an eye out for the ‘dune of all dunes’, which towers above the rest. If you’ve followed our suggested route, it should be sitting around your ‘two o’clock’, although it’s so impressive you’re unlikely to miss it wherever you are. On your first visit to Merthyr Mawr, it’s practically a rite of passage to clamber to the top with your furry friend and soak up the even better views from above. From here, the route to the beach is clear straight ahead, with plenty more dunes to enjoy along the way.
Once you reach the beach, you’ll find wide, flat sandy plains – perfect if your legs (or paws) need a breather. To your right, Newton Beach stretches towards Porthcawl, while to your left lies the estuary linking Merthyr Mawr to Ogmore-by-Sea. Head left towards the edge of the estuary (see our safety tip below), then follow it as you loop gently back into dune territory. Feel free to take a different route on the return. Once you find a path, they all eventually lead you back to where you started.
In short, this is one of the biggest natural playgrounds your dog will ever experience. It’s ideal for high-energy pups, while the variety of routes also makes it a great option for reactive or less socially confident dogs.
