Activities &
Local attractions
The Dyfnant Forest is a remote 6,000 acre forest at the periphery of the Cambrian Mountains, in North Powys, Wales. Lonely Planet has described it as being "where a well-signposted maze of forestry tracks culminates in one enormous hill before descending rather spectacularly toward Lake Vyrnwy". https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dyfnant_Forest
We are very fortunate to be situated near the incredible Lake Vyrnwy and Vyrnwy dam.
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In the forest you will also find the Rainbow Trails for horse-riding, carriage-driving, cycling and walking.
The forest is also fantastic terrain for cycling and mountain-biking. You can hire a bike from the wonderful Artisan's Cafe.
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These are some of the other attractions that we are close to:-
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Snowdon, Gwynedd Wales’ highest summit (1085 metres). There is a café at the peak, and also the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
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Llangollen Railway, Denbighshire. Heritage railway that runs for 10 miles between Llangollen and Corwen following the beautiful Dee Valley in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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Plas Newydd House Museum and Gardens, Denbighshire. Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby – the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’ turned this modest cottage into a large Gothic-style home which was visited by the likes of poet William Wordsworth and the Duke of Wellington. It features oak carvings collected by Eleanor, as well as rustic bridges and a ‘ruined’ archway.
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Chirk Castle, Wrexham. Built during King Edward I’s campaign to subdue the Welsh, Chirk castle is lavishly decorated and features a 17th Century Long Gallery and 1920’s style Bow Room.
Dyfnant forest is also host to two large motorsport events; the Plains Rally and the Wales Rally GB.
THE DARK SKY OF THE DYFNANT FOREST
It is the most amazing experience when you see the night sky on a clear night, free from the light pollution of the city. Here in the Dyfnant forest we are incredibly lucky to have virtually zero light pollution. When you look at the night sky it can seem like you are in a curved snow-globe, the galaxy seems so close. It's hard to capture this on a photo but do come and see for yourself. You won't be disappointed - well unless it's a very cloudy night so check the weather forecast!
FOREST BATHING
Forest bathing is a translation of the Japanese term 'Shinrin-Yoku. The Japanese have been using mindful forest walks for many years to maintain and restore wellbeing. At its heart the term means a recreational trip to the forest for relaxation and wellbeing.
The benefits of being in nature have been widely studied and it is thought that being around trees in particular has a specific impact on our health. Trees breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen. We do the opposite, so at a purely basic level there is a symbiotic relationship between us and trees. The nature of the space we occupy also provides benefits to our health. Being free from traffic pollution, noise, concrete and tarmac, and having the sounds of nature are all beneficial.
The sounds, sights and smells in the forest can be a wonderful stimulation for the senses.
LOCAL FACILITIES
FORAGING
The forest is home to an incredible number of fungi, wild herbs, and berries and is a fascinating place to visit if foraging is of interest to you.
Lwydiarth Post office, Shop and Petrol station
Dafarn Newydd Shop, Petrol station, and Takeaway food
Artisans Cafe
Old Barn cafe
Tower Tavern, Lake Vyrnwy Hotel
St wddyn's Church
Lwydiarth Church
