Forest bathing at Llantrisant Forest

Llantrisant Forest covers about 250 hectares of hillside south of Llantrisant, a mix of plantation and woodland that is ancient in parts. It is close to the M4 corridor and the towns of the lower Taf Ely, yet the network of tracks gives you plenty of room, and you can walk in from a railway station.

Most people start from the Natural Resources Wales car park, where the council's Mynydd Garthmaelwg walk begins. If you come by train, the council also has a 6km route from Llanharan station into the forest. Paths range from unsurfaced forest roads to wide paths and narrow tracks under the trees; the narrow ones are the quieter choice. It is hilly, so expect some climbing and mud after rain. A picnic table and viewpoint look out from one of the higher points.