Coed Maes-y-garnedd

The forest floors here are absolutely carpeted in moss - the kind of deep green that makes you forget what season it is. Coed Maes-y-garnedd sits just outside Dolgellau in Gwynedd, and it's proper woodland walking territory rather than a manicured nature reserve.

What you're getting is genuine Welsh forest - ancient oaks, coniferous plantings, and enough shade to keep things cool even on warmer days. The paths wind through at a reasonable pace, nothing too technical. Most visitors come for a solid two to three hours of rambling, though you can easily stretch it longer if you've brought a packed lunch and fancy dawdling.

This is walker country, full stop. If your idea of a forest visit involves a gift shop and a café, you'll be disappointed. There's no visitor centre, no facilities that I could find - bring what you need and take what you've brought. Families with young kids might manage it, but it's not a destination that'll hold attention for under-fives.

Perfect when you're based at Llwyn yr Helm Caravan and Camping Park down the road. It's close enough for an afternoon circuit without eating into a full day's outing, yet substantial enough to justify the drive from the park. The Dolgellau area's got proper mountains and lakes nearby if you want to string together a longer trip, but this forest works well as a quieter counterpoint - somewhere to actually breathe without crowds.