Unspoilt countryside dotted with the remains of Norman castles, wildlife, and good country pubs comprises the Welsh county of Monmouthshire. Surrounded by the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains, and the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the area is renowned for its country walks, taking in the stunning views and history of the region. Situated on the border of England and Wales, the area is well-connected despite its rural charms. Based on measures of residents’ health, life expectancy, employment, school performance, and regional climate, Monmouthshire residents were found by the Halifax Rural Quality of Life Survey in 2013 to have the best quality of life of all the rural Welsh counties.