Allt Nantypelau

The forest at Allt Nantypelau sits above Llandysul, a proper working woodland rather than a manicured country estate. You're looking at mixed broadleaf and conifer, the kind of place where the light filters through in patches and the undergrowth actually smells like something.

There are woodland walks threading through here, mostly well-trodden but nothing that's been over-engineered. The terrain's undulating enough to feel like proper walking without being exhausting. On a clear day you get views across the Teifi Valley - the river snakes through below and you can see why people bother living in these valleys. The forest floor changes depending on the season: spring brings bluebells, autumn's a decent carpet of leaf litter if you're into that sort of thing.

This is walker territory, really. Not a destination for young kids wanting a quick wander and ice cream - you need proper footwear and at least an hour to make it worthwhile. History buffs won't find much to chew on here, but if you're after solitude and Welsh woodland that hasn't been overly fussed about, it delivers.

Free to access, no facilities that I'm aware of. If you're camped at Wern Mill Caravan Park or Penrhyn Farm Camping - both within easy drive - this is a legitimate half-day outing. Go mid-week in autumn if you want the place to yourself. Llandysul's got the basics for supplies if you need them before heading in.