August 23rd 2024.
Did you know that there's a hidden gem in the Welsh wilderness, just a short distance from Snowdonia national park? It's the beautiful Hafren Forest, located south of the national park, and it's closer than you think.
As you wander through the towering trees, visitors often feel like they've been transported to the pine forests of Canada or Alaska. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the River Severn and allows you to bask in the sunlight filtering through the branches of spruce trees. It's no wonder that Hafren Forest has become a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok, with its breathtaking beauty receiving rave reviews on TripAdvisor.
One reviewer gushed, "I have to say Hafren Forest is probably one of the most picturesque places I have ever been to." And on Instagram, users have dubbed it a "paradise for photographers" and praised its "serene beauty" and "natural splendor."
Even the popular travel couple Tom and Leanne, known as @Adventure.amore on Instagram, couldn't resist raving about the stunning scenery and comparing it to the pine forests of Canada and Alaska.
Hafren Forest is part of the National Forest for Wales and is home to ospreys during breeding season before they migrate back to Africa. The best part? You can enjoy all of this beauty for free, with wheelchair accessible routes on the boardwalk so everyone can experience its wonders.
When it comes to walking routes, Hafren Forest has something for everyone. The Cascades walk, stretching just half a mile, is the easiest and most accessible for prams and wheelchairs. It's a leisurely 30-minute stroll with a boardwalk that follows the cascading river, leading to a raised platform where you can take in the view before heading back to your car.
For those looking for a longer walk, the one-and-a-half-mile Severn-Break-Its-Neck trail is a popular choice. It takes about an hour and offers views of the river, a wildflower meadow, and a footbridge overlooking the stunning Severn-Break-Its-Neck waterfall.
There's also the Blaen Hafren Falls trail, which takes you through the heart of the forest, but it's a bit more challenging with steep inclines and descents. However, there are benches along the way to rest and take in the beautiful surroundings.
For hiking enthusiasts, the five-hour Source of the Severn trail is a must-try. This longer hike takes you through the forest and moorland, passing by sheep, and leads to the birthplace of the River Severn on Pumlumon mountain. Along the way, you'll also come across the remains of a mine and farmstead, adding a touch of history to your journey.
Hafren Forest also serves as a starting point for longer treks such as the 136-mile Wye Valley walk to Chepstow, the 210-mile Severn Way to Bristol, and the 25-mile Sarn Sabrina loop through the forest.
Getting to Hafren Forest is relatively easy, as it's only six miles west of the market town of Llanidloes in Mid Wales. Driving is the most convenient option, but be warned that the postcode (SY18 6PT) may not lead you all the way there. Instead, follow the directions provided by Natural Resources Wales, which will take you to the main car park. Here, you'll also find maps of all the trails to help you navigate your way through the forest.
If you're traveling by rail, the nearest mainline station is Caersws. And if you're planning to make a day trip out of it, there are plenty of other attractions nearby. Just a 40-minute drive away is Devil's Bridge Falls in Ceredigion, surrounded by forest and steeped in legend. This hidden gem has been hailed as a "natural wonder beyond imagination" and consistently receives five-star ratings on TripAdvisor.
There are two walks to choose from around the waterfalls – the Nature Trail, Waterfalls, and Three Bridges, which takes about 45 minutes and involves 675 steep and uneven natural stone steps, and the shorter Punchbowl and Three Bridges walk, which takes only 10-20 minutes. Whichever you choose, make sure to wear sensible shoes!
So, whether you're a nature lover, hiking enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Hafren Forest and its surrounding attractions are a must-visit. Trust us, you won't be disappointed. And if you end up having a memorable experience, we'd love to hear about it! Share your story by emailing us at email.
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