Forest bathing at Sirhowy Valley Country Park

Sirhowy Valley Country Park follows nearly four miles of former railway line along the western side of the valley, from the Full Moon roundabout at Crosskeys to Gelligroes. Woodland rises from the riverbank up the valley sides, and above the park Natural Resources Wales manages more forest with steeper walking. There is history along the way too: the Grade II listed Penllwyn Tramroad Bridge of 1824, and Babell Chapel, where the poet Islwyn is buried.

The main path is flat tarmac, so this is one of the easiest woodland walks in the county, but it is shared with cyclists on National Cycle Network Route 47. For quieter time, leave the main line for the River Walk, the Meadows Trail or the Woodland Trail, or head up into the forest above, where paths are stone dust or natural and can be steep and rough. The Graig Goch and Flatwoods Meadows nature reserves are within the park.