Where to go · Rhondda Cynon Taf
Forest bathing at St Gwynno Forest, Llanwonno
A big upland forest between the Rhondda and Cynon valleys, around the old hilltop church of St Gwynno.
St Gwynno Forest is part of Llanwynno Forest, a 2,644 hectare Natural Resources Wales forest that lies wholly within Rhondda Cynon Taf, in the hills between the Rhondda and Cynon valleys south of Aberdare. It is mostly conifer and larch, with patches of ancient semi natural woodland, and NRW is working to add more broadleaves. At its heart is the hamlet of Llanwonno: just St Gwynno's Church, whose churchyard holds the grave of the 18th century runner Guto Nyth Brân, and the Brynffynon inn.
The council's 3.2km St Gwynno Forest Walk starts from the forest car park. For a longer outing, the Llanwonno Loop passes Clydach Reservoir, the Pistyll Golau waterfall and the church, and can be joined to the forest walk. Expect forest roads and paths, exposed in places at this height, so bring layers.
Practical
- Managed by
- Natural Resources Wales
- Parking
- St Gwynno Forest car park
- Terrain
- Forest roads and paths; upland and exposed in places
- Nearest station
- Mountain Ash or Abercynon, about 4 miles by road
- Facilities
- Brynffynon inn at Llanwonno
- Opening and entry
- Open access, free
- Official page
- naturalresources.wales
Last updated 4 November 2026. Paths, parking and access can change, so check before you visit. Spotted something out of date? Please let us know.
Guides nearby
A guide within 15 miles of St Gwynno Forest, Llanwonno
More woodlands in Rhondda Cynon Taf
All venues in Rhondda Cynon Taf
Llantrisant ForestHillside forest, ancient in parts, with wide tracks and quieter narrow paths
Barry Sidings Countryside ParkReclaimed railway sidings with forestry paths and riverside walks near PontypriddGlyncornel Nature ReserveNatural woodland on the Rhondda valley side at Llwynypia, linking into the forest abovePhotos: Llantrisant Forest, Nigel Davies (CC BY-SA 2.0); Barry Sidings Countryside Park (area photo): On the yellow waymarked trail, Gwydir Forest. Photograph: Peter S, CC BY-SA 2.0.