Fairy Glen, Betws-y-coed, Conwy

© Robert Harding World Imagery/Offset by Shutterstoc

Carving through Conwy

There’s a touch of magic about Ffos Noddun, a narrow, mossy gorge in North Wales, where the River Colwyn carves its way through steep-sided rocks. Perhaps that is why it is known in English as the Fairy Glen, so named in 1903 when it was gifted to the council for public use. Its beauty has been admired by artists, poets and writers for centuries and it remains a popular beauty spot for those able to climb down the steps cut into the rock.

Here ancient woodland is home to oaks, ash, sycamore and alder trees while the cool moist conditions near the river provide fertile ground for a wide variety of ferns. Smell the wild garlic and listen to the blackbirds, song thrushes and wrens in the woodland while watching grey wagtails dart about near the stream. The gorge is not far from the beautiful village of Betws-y-Coed, a former artists’ colony which is now a popular spot for outdoor activities and the gateway to Snowdonia National Park.

There is lots to see in this magical area with mountains, castles and the dense Gwydir Forest but particularly popular is the spectacular Swallow Falls, where the River Llugwy hurtles down from the mountains, through a narrow chasm and over a 138ft drop, spraying onlookers on its way past.