Forest bathing at St Mary’s Vale, Sugar Loaf

St Mary's Vale is the wooded valley between the Llanwenarth and Rholben ridges, at the foot of the Sugar Loaf above Abergavenny, cared for by the National Trust. Oak and beech cling to the valley sides for miles, and the Nant Iago stream starts here. Large areas are protected as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Special Areas of Conservation, and the vale has a large population of the rare red wood ant.

The trees give a sheltered canopy, so this is a good choice when the open hill is windy. In spring, light through the new leaves falls in dappled shade over the stream. Parking near the Sugar Loaf is limited and reached by narrow lanes, so the National Trust suggests starting from Fairfield car park in Abergavenny, which makes for a longer walk. There are no toilets or wheelchair access on the hill; the nearest facilities are in town.