The first section of the Wales Forest Trail has officially opened, providing a 50-mile (80km) route that connects woodlands across South Wales. The pilot path runs from Porthkerry Park near Barry to Pont Walby near Glynneath, serving as the initial segment of a larger network envisioned by the National Forest for Wales.
Reconnecting Communities with Woodlands
The trail aims to bridge the gap between post-industrial valley communities and the surrounding natural landscapes. Historically, residents of these areas often felt disconnected from the hills that loomed above their villages, despite the proximity of wild terrain. The project seeks to change this dynamic by creating accessible paths through previously inaccessible or underused land.
Rhodri Hewitt, the project lead from Natural Resources Wales, noted that while some valley areas can feel deprived, the natural environment offers a distinct alternative. He highlighted the transformation of Coed Bach Dimbath in Blackmill, a community woodland where local groups have built an otter hide and outdoor classroom. “The woodland there had been inaccessible for decades, and now people can access it,” Hewitt said.
The route is designed to accommodate various users, including cyclists, horse riders, and those using pushchairs. This inclusivity is intended to encourage broader community engagement with the outdoors, moving beyond the traditional focus on mountain biking which has long been popular in the region.
A Route Through History and Nature
The path follows a mix of old railway lines, forest tracks, and open moorland. It traces some of the routes once used by miners traveling between pits in neighboring valleys. The terrain shifts from the oak and birch trees of Porthkerry Park to the ancient pines of Hensol Forest, and eventually to the commercial woodlands of Afan Forest Park.
Walkers can expect varied scenery, including the rocky plateau of Tarren y Fforch and the rainforest-like valley of Cwm Gwrelych, a site of special scientific interest due to its exposed 300-million-year-old geological strata. The trail also passes near the Vale Resort, which offers amenities such as a spa and restaurant for hikers seeking rest.
The final stretch of the current pilot route ends at a viaduct designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel at Pont Walby. This structure stands as a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage, now repurposed as a backdrop for a nature trail. The path continues toward Sgwd Gwladys pub in Pontneddfechan, where visitors can view the waterfall that gives the establishment its name.
Future Expansion Plans
This 50-mile section is just the beginning. The National Forest for Wales plans to extend the trail to link woodlands across the entire length of Wales, creating a sylvan counterpart to the existing Wales Coast Path. The organization provided the trip for initial testing and is working with Natural Resources Wales to ensure the route remains accessible and well-maintained.
Accommodation options along the route include the Vale Resort, with doubles starting from £104, and holiday cottages in areas like Blaenogwr Farm, available from £87 per night. The Sgwd Gwladys pub offers rooms from £65.55. For detailed maps and trail information, visitors can consult the official government website at gov.wales/llwybr-coedwig-cymru-trail.
Source: The Guardian
