Crychan forest

The Cambrian Mountains rise up around you at Crychan Forest, all dark conifers and open moorland that feels genuinely remote even though you're only a stone's throw from Llanwrtyd Wells. This is proper walking country - dense plantations of spruce and pine crisscrossed with trails ranging from gentle riverside strolls to proper lung-busting climbs onto the ridges above.

What you're actually doing here is spending a few hours on foot, watching the forest canopy shift colour as you move between the thick tree cover and the more exposed high ground. The views across the Towy Valley open up if you push far enough, and on a clear day you can see right across Carmarthenshire. It's bleak and beautiful in equal measure - not the kind of place for an afternoon wander if you're expecting manicured paths and picnic tables.

Families with older kids will manage the easier loops fine, but toddlers will struggle with the terrain. Serious walkers and mountain bikers come here for exactly that reason - it's less crowded than the Brecon Beacons and properly challenging in places. The forest gets muddy and slippery year-round, so decent boots aren't optional. Spring and autumn are probably your best bets weather-wise, though even then you need to respect the weather.

Both Erwlon Caravan & Camping Park and Riverside Pods sit within striking distance, making this a natural add-on to a broader Carmarthenshire walking holiday. The trails here pair well with the nearby peaks if you're building a multi-day route. Allowing half a day minimum - more if you're tackling the higher terrain.