Attractions North Wales

description

This atmospheric heather moorland, high on the Denbigh moors, is the North Wales Wildlife Trust's largest reserve. It is part of the Mynydd Hiraethog SSSI. Before being purchased by the Trust in 1988 the area suffered from lack of management with the decline of grouse shooting and afforestation. Nowadays, the reserve is flourishing with heather stands of different ages. This provides a variety of habitats for upland birds like Black and Red grouse, Hen harrier and Merlin as well as many other moorland animals such as brown Hares and basking adders. A visit to the bird hide, close to the eastern car park, might provide you with a view of their comings and goings, as well as a close up of diving and wading birds visiting the northern shores of Llyn Brenig. Several walks will lead you through, visiting extensive areas of species-rich blanket bog; teeming with insect life. You will also encounter areas of upland grassland, supporting colourful wildflowers, such as the Mountain Pansy (Viola lutea). Keep an eye out for various gems in the deep gullies, cut through the peat by many small streams. They provide steep banks for shade-loving plants such as Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) and Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina). If you just want to stand still and take it all in, you won't miss the magic of this beautiful reserve, as the views change dramatically, while you're watching, with the movement of clouds and the passage of the sun.

Grid Ref: SH975 580. The reserve is situated 7 miles SW of Denbigh on the B4501. It lies at the Northern end of Llyn Brenig. From Denbigh, take the A543 Pentrefoelas road. After 7 miles, turn left on the road signposted to Llyn Brenig. After 1 mile, turn left again, the road runs through the reserve. You can park at the top car park (SH 970 580) or near the bird hide (SH 983 5754). It is also easily accessible from the A5 at Cerrigydrudion, 7 miles North on the B5401. 

contact

Gors Maen Llwyd Reserve, North Wales Wildlife Trust
A543 (Sportsmans Arms Inn)
Bylchau
Denbigh
Denbighshire
LL16 5SW

Tel: (01248) 351541

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