Welly Walks for October
The beach
Just a stone’s throw from the hotel is Aberdyfi beach. Miles of golden sand that stretches from the mouth of the Dyfi estuary along the coast to Tywyn. At this time of year, you may even have the whole beach to yourself. There is nothing better than a bracing, wind-swept beach walk - why not wear your wellies and paddle in the waves? If you’re lucky enough to experience some autumnal sunshine, the dunes provide a lovely shelter from the wind, and sandcastles can be made whatever the weather. Walks along the beach are also a firm favourite with four-legged members of the family, and this time of year, they can have the whole beach - much to their delight! Autumnal tides can be wonderful to watch, but please be mindful at high tide as they can also be extremely strong.
Nant Gwernol forest walks
A short drive from the Trefeddian takes you into Abergynolwyn. From here, you can access three walks through the unspoilt woodlands of the forestry, and you'll see something of the former slate mining activity in the area. There are two shorter walks at one mile each or a longer three-mile walk. The cascade trail (the yellow route) crosses the footbridge by the station and ascends the valley close to the river. Further down, cross another bridge to go back along the other side before steeply descending the Allwyllt incline towards the station.
The red trail is also around the one-mile mark. From Nant Gwernol station, this route climbs the Allwyllt incline by a zigzag path before descending to Abergynolwyn station. Finally, the Quarryman Trail (the blue path) is around three miles long and explores the old mine workings of Bryn Eglwys Quarry. It follows the river before climbing out of the woods, through the old quarry, past mill workings and descending along the old tramway and steep Allwyllt incline back to the station.
The starting point of the Nant Gwernol walks is the station at the end of the line on the Talyllyn narrow gauge railway on its route from Tywyn, through the Fathew valley to Abergynolwyn, so a train ride and walk can be combined.
Tywyn Broadwaters
Our third walk can be as long or as short as you like. A few minutes from the hotel is Tywyn, and from here, head down to the Broadwaters by Bailey Bridge. Walk along the water's edge, following the path along the estuary of the River Dysynni where you can see Bird Rock in the distance. You can either turn back and walk the path in reverse back to the car, or turn right over the bridge and into Ynysmaengwyn where you can take a two-mile detour. Open all year round, the beautiful woodland setting is perfect for a wander, and those that are more adventurous, can partake in the orienteering course. Wrap up warm and explore the tranquil grounds of the estate once owned by the Corbett family where you can see the ruins of the old grand mansion. The Dovecote also stands in the grounds, together with a walled garden and a Fairy Glen hidden in the woods. If there are smaller people in your party, set them a challenge by asking, "How many different types of leaves can you find? How many different colours? And who can find the biggest leaf?" If you would like to extend your walk, follow the Broadwaters all the way into the village of Bryncrug before looping back to Tywyn.