Abergynolwyn
Woodland Trust wood group
Size:
11.13 ha (27.50 acres)
Grid reference:
SH683063
Map reference:
Explorer 23
OS Landranger 124
This stunning woodland offers spectacular views and diverse habitats, with rare wildlife, flowing streams and tumbling waterfalls. Listen out for the sound of the Nant Gwernol river and see if you can spot an otter foraging along the stream. Be sure to visit in spring to enjoy the vibrant bluebells and budding trees.
Coed Nant Gwernol and Coed Hendrewallog lie near the village of Abergynolwyn, on the B4405 in Meirionnydd, 19km (11.8 miles) south-west of Dolgellau. The site covers 15.8 hectares (39 acres).
From the A487 northbound, turn left onto the B4405 just after Corris, for Abergynolwyn.
From the A487 southbound, turn right onto the B4405 just after the Minffordd pub, for Abergynolwyn.
From the public car park, turn into the narrow lane which goes alongside the Ganolfan community centre in the middle of the village. This road climbs very steeply as it leaves the village and has some sharp turns. Enter via a path heading right, off the road on the first bend.
The nearest mainline train station is 11.3km (7 miles) away at Tywyn. The Talyllyn Railway terminus station adjoins the main line station and trains run right to Coed Nant Gwernol. The timetable alters seasonally.
Visit National Rail or Talyllyn Railway for more information.
The nearest bus stop is at the Railway Inn, Abergynolwyn.
Visit Traveline for more information
Coed Nant Gwernol and Coed Hendrewallog can be reached via a public footpath from either the parking area by the café in the centre of Abergynolwyn, or from the nearby Nant Gwernol station on the Talyllyn Railway.
A public footpath links to the old gated quarry road from the northern end of the site. There are additional permissive paths and three further stile access points along the north-eastern boundary.
Leading off the road are several new paths, including a route through the new planting and a footpath which crosses the site to join the riverside path through Coed Nant Gwernol, which passes waterfalls and pools.
Paths in Coed Nant Gwernol are earth and rock, with some slate chip and often narrow in places. There are several flights of steps, some of which are made from exposed bedrock and are typically wet. Handrails and footbridges are provided in places. Paths in Coed Hendrewallog are grassy.
Benches are provided at several locations and there are three interpretation panels at the main entrance points.
We recommend that you park in the public car park situated in the centre of the village, close to the nearby pub and café. It has space for around 10 cars.
To reach the car park, turn into the narrow lane which goes alongside the Ganolfan community centre in the middle of the village. This road climbs very steeply as it leaves the village and has some sharp turns. Enter via a path to the right, straight off the road on the first bend.
The nearest public toilets are located at Abergynolwyn Station and Abergynolwyn community centre. There are also two sites with RADAR-accessible toilets at Tywyn, 11.3km (7 miles) away.
The woodland has a diverse range of wildlife, including rare hazel dormice, bats, otters, many species of bird and a variety of invertebrates.
Look out for:
Coed Nant Gwernol and Coed Hendrewallog have been given a new lease of life after the removal of both invasive rhododendron and planted conifer, and the creation of 4.5 hectares (11 acres) of native woodland in 2000.
Look out for:
With streams and waterfalls, magical ancient upland woods and broadleaf trees, there is a range of diverse habitats to explore in these woods.
Explore:
Coed Nant Gwernol is an ancient wood that the Woodland Trust purchased in 1993, while Coed Hendrewallog was formerly rough pasture and bracken which we planted with broadleaved trees and shrubs during 2000, under the ‘Woods on Your Doorstep’ project.
Coed Hendrewallog is named after the medieval farmstead, now in ruins, above the road to the east.
This wood is one of more than 50 across the UK where it's possible to dedicate trees, benches or larger areas of woodland. Mark a special occasion or celebrate the life of a loved one with a meaningful gesture that lasts.
Choose a dedication1.6km (1 mile), moderate
The Cascade Trail climbs uphill, closely following the tumbling river. It then crosses a wooden bridge onto the old tramway and descends steeply alongside part of the old Allt Wyllt incline back to Nant Gwernol station.
6.4km (4 miles), strenuous
This is a more challenging walk with long climbs and steep descents. Highlights include expansive views of Cader Idris, waterfalls and the ruined mine workings of Bryn Eglwys quarry.
The Talyllyn Railway publish a booklet called 'Talyllyn Railway Walks', one of them going through Coed Nant Gwernol. Natural Resources Wales maintain waymarked trails in their adjoining Nant Gwernol forest, two of which pass through Coed Nant Gwernol. A leaflet describing the trails is available from Natural Resources Wales.
