The forests of Wales make the idea of fantasy feel like it’s never far away.

Tales of lands filled with treetops and rolling hills come to mind, where smells of fresh summer flowers caught on the breeze drift by, and not a sound can be heard but the soft groans of the old trees.

Where stories and reality merge

But sometimes you can leave that book closed, head to Dyfnant Forest and you’ll soon be stepping into your very own fantasy story.

The hills and valleys of Mid-Wales are famed for being one of the most spectacular landscapes in the whole country.

Lying between flatter ground to the east and the mountainous crags of Snowdonia in the west, the forest sits right in the middle – the best of both worlds.

Legends of Dyfnant Forest

But nature isn’t the only part of this fantasy story.

When your adventure begins at Dyfnant, you’re also walking in the footsteps (or at least his horse’s) of Owain Glyndwr, the famous Welsh Prince of old.

Imagine what it would’ve been like, a chorus of galloping horses darting over hilltops and across valley bottoms, led by the man fighting for the whole of Wales.

In truth, the landscape hasn’t changed all that much.

Galloping away under the trees

Parts of the forest, like Pen y Ffordd, are favoured by horse riders for the impressive trails that wind their way through the area.

And Hendre, just north of Pen y Ffordd, is another must-visit destination for any horse rider looking for spectacular routes. You might just catch a horse-drawn carriage or two rolling by as well.

Back on your own two feet

If it’s a day of walking you’re after, you won’t find many better places than Pont Llogel.

The woodland covers quite a small area, but it’s filled with the most incredible walks. Short or long, a casual stroll or perhaps something a bit more challenging – you’ll find it under the treetops of this beautiful place.

Hop on the Glyndŵr’s Way National Trail which runs through the forest if you’re up for one epic trip.

It’s definitely not one to do on a whim though, be sure to prepare and pack accordingly to whichever trail you’re headed out for.

The day’s end

Your travels through Dyfnant Forest inevitably must come to an end.

But the great thing with nature? It’s always there, waiting for when the inspiration strikes to head back outdoors and start your next adventure.

So, when will you be back?