The Brechfa Forest area of Carmarthenshire is a little known area of Wales. It is a secret world of hidden wooded valleys, clear rivers, old Inns that serve fine food and ales, and unspoilt villages tucked away down quiet country lanes. It is a perfect place to visit and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Brechfa forest is situated just 10 miles east of the county town of Carmarthen. The forest has been managed by the Forestry Commission since 1919. during the Middle Ages it was made up of mainly oak and ash trees and was an important hunting ground. The old church in the village of Brechfa has a fascinating and long history. St Teilo's church was named after Teilo who was one of three missionary bishops who brought Christianity to the green valleys of West Wales in the 6th century.

In the picturesque village of Brechfa there is a fine 17th century country house converted into a quality hotel and restaurant, plus the old Forest Arms country Inn.

Five miles north of Brechfa on the B4310 road lies the village of Abergorlech which is situated next to the clear and pollution free River Cothi that flows through the heart of this area. The old coaching Inn 'The Black Lion' and the breathtaking Gorlech cycle trail are a must when visiting here.

A few miles to the east of this area down a series of narrow country lanes lies the unspoilt village of Llanfynydd. There is a 13th century church and two fine Inns here.

For walkers and hikers there are many miles of pathways and lanes. In September the hedgerows next to the paths and roads are covered with blackberries.

There are many country hotels,guest houses, farms, Inns and restaurants in the most unexpected locations here that provide excellent accommodation and good food. And once a year (this year in early December) the World Rally Championships comes to this part of Carmarthenshire.

Springtime is a special time to visit this corner of Wales. In March the area is covered with
daffodils. And in late April the woodlands next to the country lanes are carpeted with bluebells. This is a great time of the year for walking and cycling. As you walk down the
rural pathways you may see a curious fox or an elusive badger. The area has many species of
bird to see if you are interested in ornithology.

In the summertime Foxgloves, campions and wild strawberries adorn the hedgerows.And in
July we have the Towy vintage show with classic cars and tractors. There is nothing better
on a warm summer evening than sitting outside an old Inn sipping a local ale with a good meal
and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

So, if you ever come to the west of Wales one day why not take a small detour east of carmarthen and come and see this unspoilt and picturesque corner of Carmarthenshire. You'll
be glad you did!

Learn more about this author, John bibby.
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