Directions: OS Reference ST 532943/ OS Explorer Map OL14

The Welsh tourism industry is by no means a modern phenomenon. People have been coming here to walk through the beautiful countryside for longer than most of us imagine.

Chris Barber - Walking Wales Magazine says...

This route along the Wye Valley from Chepstow to Tintern is not only fascinating but dramatic. Start at the leaping salmon waymark in the romantic ruins of Chepstow Castle.

After ascending a path through the Castle Dell it is not far to the old Piercefield Estate, where the route passes through ancient woodland and takes in a number of historic viewpoints.

The steeply-wooded sides of this impressive gorge have remained virtually untouched by man since trees first colonised the slopes after the ice age.

The central part of this walk, below the Wyndcliff, passes through more woods containing a uniquely high proportion of native yew trees.

The highlight is the ascent of around 365 steps to the Eagles' Nest viewpoint 700 feet above the river.

From there one continues through Minepit Wood, where iron ore was extracted by the Romans and then down through Limekiln Wood along an old packhorse route to Tintern.

The village is world famous for its Cistercian Abbey, once a centre of monastic life for four hundred years. Thanks to artists such as Turner and poets like Wordsworth, this lower stretch of the Wye became popular with the 'in crowd' in the 18th century.

A young landowner named Valentine Morris saw the potential in the area and from 1736 began to build scenic walks through the grounds of the Piercefield estate. He built special viewing points, fanciful grottos and other follies e.g. 'the Giants cave' encouraging people to wander the woodlands and enjoy the scenery.

Derek Brockway says... The way up is a bit steep, the views as well as the steps will take your breath away. You'll see Chepstow racecourse, both Severn bridges, Chepstow Castle and - on a fine day - it is said you can see seven counties!

In the spring it passes through stunning bluebell woods but is also beautiful in autumn. It's also possible to break it up into smaller chunks and even miss some of the steps by parking below the Eagle's Nest.

If you're lucky you may see a peregrine falcon and the rare red kite which are now established in the Wye Valley. While along the river, look out for heron, kingfisher and otters.