Forest bathing at Coed Dolgarrog

Coed Dolgarrog is a National Nature Reserve of about 69 hectares on the steep western side of the Conwy Valley, just outside the village of Dolgarrog and roughly halfway between Conwy and Llanrwst. It is unusual for North Wales: there is mature beech and wet alder woodland, both rare in the region, as well as old oaks, old coppice and lime trees growing on volcanic cliffs. It is a place of big old trees rather than plantations.

The paths are wide and easy to follow, but the valley side is steep, so expect some hard climbs if you leave the lower ground. The wet alder woodland near the valley floor is the gentler part and good for slow walking. Spring brings early purple orchids and woodland birds such as pied flycatchers and redstarts; in autumn, look for chanterelles and other fungi. Facilities are minimal, so come prepared.