12c Cumulonimbus Clouds Observ
Barmouth Viaduct at Sunset 
Llanberis from Penllyn 
Morfa Bychan beach near Porthmadog 
North Wales Calendar 
What's the attraction?
The spring has arrived with blue skies, the sun is shining and three energetic children in the car on a Saturday afternoon. Could be a nightmare. Colin, Tom and Catrin are ready to explore this amazing, purpose-built outdoor recreation centre.
Set within the amazing scenery of the Cader Idris ranges near Dolgellau, we found there was definitely something for everyone at this new visitor centre. Environment minister Carwyn Jones called it "the powerhouse of the local economy". An inspiration for walkers, mountain bikers, runners and families alike.
What's on offer?
Nestling amongst the trees, the attractive wooden circular centre beckoned us in to experience what was on offer. You don't have to bike - a network of trails include leisurely family walks, and an all-ability trail along the river banks, plus challenging orienteering trails, demanding running trails and exhilarating mountain bike trails for families or experienced riders.
The circular centre, built local materials and timber, features a shingle roof, natural insulation and a biomass/woodfuel heating system , which was of great fascination to the children who are very aware of helping the environmentt. There was also a bike shop and workshop facility, a classroom and a meeting room. Outside, the children could not wait to try out the two very interesting looking play areas.
How did you get there?
It's eight miles north of Dolgellau on the A470, and took us only 40 minutes from our home in Llanfihangel y Pennant.
Click to launch Google MapHow long did you stay?
Having visited the old centre at Maesgwm on several occasions, this was our first visit to the new Forest Park. We arrived for lunch to have the afternoon to look around. It was bustling with activity - walkers, runners and mountain bikers everywhere. The hours drifted happily away and we finally left about 6 pm.
Did you take a brolly?
It was a perfect fresh spring day with warm sunshine. No brolly needed but sunglasses were a welcome accessory.
What did you do there?
The children spent the first hour on the two well planned all-ability play areas as I enjoyed a wonderful mug of coffee from the ground takeaway café - equipped to accommodate the energetic cyclists and runners.
All three children had a great time trying out all that was on offer including a basket swing, climbing ropes, thrilling slides, moving running machines, huge spinning tops all enclosed with health and safety a priority.
Definitely a park with a difference to suit all ages even though Catrin thought she could manage the BIG slide. Not quite so relaxing keeping an eye on her.
The main attraction for our group was the Animal Puzzle Trail. We followed the clues and the map around the yellow waymarked trail keeping our eyes peeled for all the birds and animals.
Colin had a great time reading the map and working out the clues with Tom close on his heels with Catrin jumping in and out of her buggy enjoying the freedom of the open spaces and the thrill of seeing the animals. Even though the squirrel caused us a bit of anxiety.
How much did it cost you?
With plenty of parking spaces costing only £3 for the day, the rest of the activities were free. Unbelievable.
How about food and drink?
As usual, we headed straight for the café which has access to a balcony with stunning panoramic views. The children loved sitting on the wooden benches with their healthy pizzas enjoying their interesting surroundings. Indeed, the menu was varied with real healthy nutritious options - Ken and I enjoyed a wholesome (hot) bean chilli with warm 'brown' crusty bread. Not the conventional meal for a hill sheep farmer. The service was excellent equipped to handle a variety of ages.
Are there any shops?
The information centre is the first stop where we received all the relevant literature for the day - a general 'something for everyone' booklet, an introduction to mountain biking, the Animal Puzzle Trail and a pack of nine walks for £3. Clear, concise well-documented and 'simple' literature which gave us the guidance we needed. The children were too interested in their surroundings to worry about buying a souvenir. A huge relief for mum.
Is it ok/safe for kids?
We did feel relaxed and confident as the children played and ran around quite freely all afternoon in this spacious beautiful woodland. The natural beauty of the area has not been compromised.
Can people with disabilities get around?
The centre gives unprecedented access to the forest to the less able visitors. Wheelchair access was available on the woodland paths as we wandered around the trails. Also the Visitor Centre was equipped to handle wheelchairs with lifts from one floor to another. There are also showers and toilets with excellent baby changing facilities.
What was the best bit?
Without the children even knowing it, as they looked and learned about various birds, animals and fish, they had a great healthy day outdoors but equally as educational - even though looking for the squirrel became a bit tiresome. Colin's face was a picture when he found it. Where? You will have to go there…….. A memorable afternoon with no tantrums.
Opening times?
The Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre is open daily. You can get further information from 01341 440 742 or www.forestry.gov.uk/wales or http://www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk/ Forest Commission Wales Contact Centre is 0845 604 0845 (weekdays only). To check the opening times and prices call the 24-hour info line 01248 670076. Email info@greenwoodforestpark.co.uk
