Welcome to spring! We all agree that winter has dragged on but at last warmer weather is around the corner, offering the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

And there are few better places to do so than Monmouthshire.

Argus readers know this, but they can help spread the word by reminding friends, relations and visitors what a special part of the world we live in.

Our county enjoys a wonderfully varied landscape, ranging from the atmospheric Gwent Levels and the Vale of Usk to the world-renowned Wye Valley and Black Mountains within the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Within our boundaries are historic castles, churches and abbeys, vibrant market towns and Roman remains, with the majority of the Blaenavon World Heritage Site lying in Monmouthshire.

We are within easy reach of London, Birmingham and the West Country as well as Cardiff and The Valleys.

Spring is a magnificent time to appreciate the countryside and Monmouthshire is blessed with walks and cycle rides for beginners and seasoned campaigners.

Admire Wentwood’s bluebells later this month or stroll the Wye Valley Walk, calling into the council’s Old Station Visitor Centre for a refreshing cuppa and its celebrated scones.

Set in stunning countryside near Tintern, it provides fun for families and its tearoom opens for the season on April 20.

Elsewhere are the Wales Coast Path, the Offa’s Dyke trail, and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal as well as a network of footpaths that lead to undiscovered delights.

Caldicot’s castle and country park, a great place for a picnic, also hosts a number of attractive events.

The May Day weekend sees WWII-era vehicles and re-enactments while the ever-popular Welsh Perry & Cider Festival is celebrated at the end of the month.

The Wye Valley River Festival runs for a fortnight from May 5 and includes plays, exhibitions, theatre and more for all ages with a spectacular finale in Llandogo.

On May 12 the festival reaches Monmouth for activities in the Shire Hall and museum, followed by a lantern parade through the town.

On May 18 and 19 is the Devauden Music Festival, headlined by local band Rusty Shackle.

Fresh air and activity works up an appetite and no day out in Monmouthshire is complete without sampling our award-winning pubs, cafes and restaurants.

We’re blessed with so many first-class establishments and our county has a fine reputation for the quality of its food and drink.

For more information about what’s on offer log onto: www.visitmonmouthshire.com - whether you’re a first time or longstanding visitor you’ll receive a very warm welcome!