Coedydd Maentwrog National Nature Reserve

Coedydd Maentwrog National Nature Reserve, located on the north side of the Vale of Ffestiniog in Gwynedd, is the largest woodland in the area. This national nature reserve comprises two sections: Coed Llyn Mair and a trio of forests—Coed Ty Coch, Coed Bronturnor, and Coed Glanrafon. The diverse habitats range from wooded valleys to open moorland, extending towards Moelwyn Bach mountain. Visitors can explore a nature trail and a network of public footpaths, though some paths can be steep and slippery when wet. Wildlife enthusiasts can look for species such as the rare lesser horseshoe bat and wood warbler, with peak bat activity occurring in August around 01:00. Other notable sightings include Daubenton's bat and various birds like the great tit and blackbird, both peaking in May. For those interested in flora, liverworts and lichens are abundant in the gorge. The best time to visit for wildlife observation is during the summer months, particularly August, when activity is at its highest.