Discover amazing wood carvings in Abergwynant Woods
Just off the Mawddach Trail, you find 3 short walking routes through the woods of Abergwynant. A little hidden treasure that most people walk or cycle past on their way to or from Barmouth.
It's worthwhile stopping off and walking one (or more) of the three loops through the woods. There are several viewing points with benches to take a rest and enjoy the views over the Mawddach Estuary on one site. Go a bit higher and the views to Cadair Idris open up. At some of the viewing points you'll find these amazing wood carvings of animals found in the area.
Abergwynant Woods has been an ancient woodland since at least the 17th century. During the 1960s conifer trees were planted there and most of the native trees were cleared. The site was acquired by the Snowdonia National Park Authority in 1996 and since then, work has been done to bring the rhododendron ponticum under control, remove the conifer trees and restore the native trees like the sessile oak, birch and holly. Soon after the clearing of the rhododendron began, more birds were heard in the area.
As the track follows the Gwynant river you will come across a great example of an old lime kiln. Ships and boats would carry limestone here from the Gogarth area in Llandudno, and the limestone would then be burnt in the kiln to create lime to be spreaded over the land to fertilize it.
Information source: Snowdonia.gov.wales
How long are the trails?
Orange and Pink trails are approximately 3 km, Purple is just 1km. All paths are easy to follow and well signposted. There are fairly steep parts with steps. We don’t believe the trails are suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
From the George III and back the total distance is approx. 6km.
How to get there?
There are three starting points on the Mawddach Trail, between the George III hotel and the small bridge over the Gwynant river. At any of the three gates, there is space to leave your bicycles. (don't forget to lock them).
If you are driving, the nearest car park is near the George III hotel, Penmaenpool. From there it is approx 2km to the nearest gate.
There is also the option to start from Abergwynant farm and campsite. (check with the owners regarding parking, if you are driving).
For more information see also Snowdonia National Park - Walks
