Between Newport and Caerphilly lies the ‘hill of pear trees’ (Rhiw’r perrai). With sweeping views over the Severn Channel, Ruperra’s footpaths wind up to an iron age hill fort and then onto a to a ruined castle, which appears out of nowhere from between the trees. The re-planting of native trees is restoring the area to its former glory as an ancient woodland. Ruperra’s historical importance is now matched by this return of biodiversity, making it an ideal place for nature spotting.