Neath Port Talbot has two distinct areas - The Vale of Neath itself and the Afan Valley. 

The Vale of Neath boasts the spectacular and powerful Aberdulias Fall, which were harnessed as a power supply as far back as the 1500s. 
They have helped a copper mine, a corn mill, iron works and a tin plating unit survive but these days are used to generate hydroelectric power. Watch the 160 million litres of water from the River Dulias help power Europe's largest electricity generating water wheel. 
This area of Wales, which is part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, covers an area called Coed Y Rhaedr by locals which translated means ' wood of the water ' (or waterfall country). 
Waterfall Country is situated in a triangle formed by the villages of Hirwaun, Ystradfellte, and Pontneddfechan - lending itself to spectacular walks. But go prepared - many of the paths are badly eroded and there have been fatalities.

The Afan Valley is less dramatic with country parks like Afan Forest Park. The ideal place for some cycling, walking or just relaxing.