As Wales continues to celebrate a legendary year, Bridgend is a perfect place to embark on an adventure with a number of activities right on our doorstep. From visiting one of the country parks to biking across the UK's biggest sand dunes - there is something for everyone! To help you plan a family day out here is a round up of epic activities and epic views.

EPIC Activities

1. Surfing with Porthcawl Surf School
Far less well known than the Welsh surf hotspots of Gower and Pembrokeshire, Bridgend nevertheless has some of the hottest surf breaks in the UK. Porthcawl offers some of the best waves for beginners and experienced surfers. Those in need of lessons can book a session with the Porthcawl Surf School, named the UK's Best Surf School at the UK Surf Awards. So grab a board and enjoy the best of British surfing! Beginner surf lesson £30pp including wetsuit and surfboard

2. Get the adrenaline pumping with Darren Fawr mountain biking trails
If you are looking for something a little faster paced, head to the Garw Valleyto experience the Welsh landscape by mountain bike. The valleys to the north of Bridgend County are home to the Darren Fawr mountain bike trails. The trails take you through a stunning natural quarry and over rock features tocreate one of the most varied sets of courses on offer.

3. Get outdoors with Bridgend's country parks
Bridgend is home to a number of country parks that are perfect places to explore the great outdoors with the whole family. On 7^th May Bryngarw Park and Parc Slip Nature Reserve host 'Legends and Tails' with a series of events that include storytelling and guided walks for a chance to explore some of Bridgend's legendary landscapes. Visit Wales' EPIC sign is also at Margam Park until May so after a day of exploring make sure you take an epic selfie!

4. Get active with Jump Jam
For an alternative family activity why not try Jump Jam, Wales' biggest indoor trampoline park! The park houses a vast area of trampolines with tumble tracks, foam pit, climbing walls and a performance trampoline along with regular family sessions and classes. Family jump (for a family of 4) £25 and Open Jump sessions from £8.95

5. Experience dynamic landscapes with a walk along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Wales has some of the most captivating scenery from nature reserves to imposing cliffs, with the Glamorgan Heritage Coast offering the opportunity to explore the best of the stunning coastline. From Porthcawl walk along the coast to Rest Bay to take in the limestone cliffs whilst exploring the tempting rock pools, a little pocket of the Welsh coastline that is the perfect base long walks or enjoying a leisurely walk along the Bay's golden sands.

EPIC Views

1. Merthyr Mawr Big Dipper - Wander through the UK's biggest sand dunes including Bridgend's mighty Big Dipper and enjoy views across South Wales' rugged coastline.

2. The Bwlch - The road leading up to the Bwlch Mountain brings you to a junction where stunning panoramic views overlooking Rhondda Fawr valley to the east and the Brecon Beacons in the north can be enjoyed.

3. Coity Castle - The castle withstood an assault by Owain Gyndwr in 1404 with the circular stone structures perched on a hilltop offering views across Bridgend's dynamic landscapes.

Bridgend is an area renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with a whole range of sporting activities on offer. The Senior Open Championship has been played at some of the best courses around the world and for the second year it returns to Porthcawl. For golf lovers or those looking to try something new, here is our guide to golf in Bridgend.

Bridgend's Golf Courses

1. Royal Porthcawl Golf Club - Former editor of Golf Illustrated magazine voted Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, the venue for this year's Senior Open Championship, amongst the 12 best courses on the planet. The course hosted Wales' first Senior Open back in 2014 and has become renowned for it's championship course. The course slopes down to the seashore where golfers can enjoy views out to sea from every hole.

2. Pyle and Kenfig - Pyle and Kenfig is located in the Kenfig National Nature Reserve and the championship course is ranked as one of the top ten in Wales. Affectionately known as P&K, the course features lofty sand dunes and offers some of the finest holes in Bridgend with panoramic views of the Welsh Mountains.

3. Grove Golf Club - The Grove remains one of Bridgend's most popular courses welcoming both members and non-members. The course is a challenging 18 holes that is perfect for a day trip or those looking to perfect their skills can book a lesson with one of the club's pros.

4. Maesteg Golf Club - Established in 1912 Maestag Golf Club was created from naturally picturesque surroundings, sitting in the Llynfi valley, with rolling terrain and stunning views across South Wales. The course suits golfers of all abilities and was originally designed by golf legend James Braid.

5. Coed y Mwstwr - The parkland course at Coed y Mwstwr, just under 6000 yards with a par of 69, features tree-lined fairways. The course provides golfers with a fun challenge and a chance to enjoy some of Bridgend's epic landscapes. 

This year's Senior Open Championship takes place from 27^th July to 30^th July 2017 and will feature both golfing legends and new talent.  Tickets for the event can be purchased here.