Discover Brechfa Forest
Brechfa Forest covers nearly 18,000 acres in the picturesque Cothi Valley. Head off the beaten track along secluded paths to peaceful little villages and explore the river banks of both the River Cothi and River Towy.  Both are noted not only for their beautiful scenery, but also for their fine fishing. They are two of the major sea trout (sewin) and salmon rivers in the UK, from the under-fished upper stretches near Llandovery to the lower section at Carmarthen.
The Cothi Valley is also home to the only known Roman gold mines in the whole of the UK, the Dolaucothi gold mines, set amid wooded hillsides overlooking the Valley.
Brechfa Forest itself is a haven for wildlife – swallows swoop low over the paths in the summer, nesting in nearby farms. The area is an important nesting ground for many species of birds.  The trees are alive with leaping squirrels and thousands of rabbits graze the grass in the open fields next to the forest. Sometimes it is even possible to see lizards basking on a warm rock in the summer sun. Even the rarer pine marten makes its home in the quieter glades.
Mountain biking in Brechfa Forest
There are specially-designed mountain bike trails in the forest to suit all abilities and experience, from the hair-raising Black Raven Trail, with it’s big cliibs, fast descents, berms and jumps, the Red Gorlech Trail, combining views and scenery with challenging terrain and excitement; through to the Green and Blue Derwen routes which offer a ‘fun for all’ introduction to mountain biking with their gentle terrain along the valley sides.
The wider forest tracks provide safe off-road cycling for those who don’t fancy the adrenaline rush of the mountain biking trails. The tracks and the forest itself combine with bridleways in the surrounding land to provide a wide choice of routes for horse riders.
Walking in Brechfa forest
 For a more leisurely exploration of the forest, there are plenty of wonderful walks of varying lengths. Paths wind through beautiful broad-leaved forest, open forest glades and past ancient abandoned stone buildings.
Car parking is available at Keepers Lodge and the picnic site at Byrgwyn. There is another lovely picnic site at Abergorlech from where the waymarked path follows the river Gorlech as it meanders through the forest and under great cathedral-like canopies of beech, past waterfalls and over a strange, curved, wooden bridge, straight out of ‘Lord of the Rings’!
Our favourite things to do in Brechfa Forest
- Embark on scenic walks or hikes in Brechfa Forest.
- Discover mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Explore local flora and fauna in the forest.
- Experience zip-lining or high ropes adventures.
- Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the forest surroundings.
