As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to the Dyfi Biosphere, Florence Fortnam picks out a selection of local cultural and heritage visitor attractions.
The diversity of landscapes and habitats of the Dyfi Biosphere – from coast and estuary to moorland and upland – means that no matter what you decide to do on holiday, whether you're after adventure or some quiet family time, you're bound to be enjoying the scenery the whole while.
We have chosen activities and visitor attractions throughout the region which will allow you to get up close and connect with the local landscape. Whether it's absorbing the beauty of the coastline from the saddle of a donkey, taking in the scenery from the comfort of a steam train, or exploring the workings of the local slate mines, there's plenty of things to keep the whole family entertained. And, of course, no holiday would be complete without a spot of shopping: the Corris Craft Centre is teeming with gifts ideas to ensure you will head home with more clobber than you arrived with.
Google map: shows the location and details of all the places to stay, local food and drink, nearby visitor attractions and activities in our Green Traveller's Guide to the Dyfi Biosphere:
Green = Places to stay Blue = Local food & drink Yellow = Attractions Purple = Activities
King Arthur’s Labyrinth
Sail underground with your mysterious hooded boatman and go back in time into the Dark Ages. Be regaled with tales of King Arthur, dragons and ferocious battles, and other ancient Welsh legends. There’s something to entertain everyone, young and old alike. Cool in summer and dry in wet weather, this is the perfect all-weather attraction. kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk
Vale of Rheidol Railway
For over a century, this little steam train has been chugging and whistling through the Welsh Reidol Valley in Wales. Opened in 1902 to carry lead ore and timber through the valleys, the Vale of Rheidol Railway now ferries passengers through the rugged mountain scenery, allowing them to marvel at the stunning views and catch glimpses of kites and buzzards from the comfort of a carriage. rheidolrailway.co.uk
Corris Mine Explorers
Wandering round these abandoned Welsh slate mines feels a little like you’ve set foot on a film set: tools, machinery, candles – even cigarette packets – are still where they were discarded by miners after the closure of the mine in the 1970s. Mark, your guide, will help you explore the damp tunnels and underground workings through several different experiences, from an hour-long taster trip to a half-day journey of exploration and discovery, which takes you along two miles of tunnels. corrismineexplorers.co.uk
Corris Craft Centre
From Celtic inspired jewellery designs, to funky forest furniture created out of reclaimed and recycled materials, the Corris Craft Centre hums with the creative buzz of 8 independent craft-makers. Whether you’re searching for a special gift, want to commission a piece of furniture or simply want to have a nose around, there is plenty of activity going on here. There’s a small playground and a choice of visitor attractions to keep children entertained too. There's a café for a refreshing booster after your retail therapy session. corriscraftcentre.co.uk
Centre for Alternative Technology
CAT is an internationally renowned visitor centre, research and residential centre, entirely powered solely by wind, solar and hydro technology. Covering all aspects of green living - from woodland management to renewal energy and environmental building - the centre runs courses on sustainable living, as well as educational programmes for schools and graduate training programmes. There are seven acres of interactive displays, and a shop and vegetarian restaurant on site. There are also two eco cabins on site – hot water is heated by the woodstove or solar panels, and wind and water turbines provide electricity. visit.cat.org.uk
Dyfi Donkeys
Dyfi Donkeys was established in 2006 with just two donkeys; they now have a stable of 6 donkeys: Moses, Del-Boy, Muffin, Twister, Spot and Joey. The donkey rides take place every day between May and September in the sand dunes at Aberdyfi Beach. Dyfi Donkeys. dyfidonkeys.blogspot.com
