Forest bathing at Lasgarn Wood

Lasgarn Wood is ancient woodland on the valley side above the Afon Lwyd, near the road from Pontypool to Blaenavon. Lower down the valley it is broadleaved, with one large beech that has a hole right through its trunk; higher up are larch plantations, unusual among conifers for dropping their needles in winter. The wood hides old limestone workings, including Nant-y-Mailor Quarry, a deep chasm now grown over with trees, and a disused reservoir.

Torfaen Council's Cwm Lasgarn Circular Walk starts from a small car park on Waterworks Lane, just off the A4043 at Victoria Village. A steep diagonal path climbs through the wood and becomes a sunken lane edged with moss, bilberry, heather and lichen, before a broad track through the larch. Allow around three hours for the whole loop, or simply climb into the trees and stop. Expect stiles, gates and muddy, slippery ground, and bring what you need, as there are no facilities.