RSPB Mawddach Valley – Coed Garth Gell

Coed Garth Gell is an RSPB woodland and heathland nature reserve situated in the Mawddach Valley. It is internationally important for the rare mosses, liverworts and lichens that cover the branches of the ancient trees, and which thrive in the high humidity and open light conditions. The 46-hectare area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

In spring, secretive lesser-spotted woodpeckers and hawfinches can be heard from the tops of tall trees, while breeding woodland birds begin singing from late April. Dippers and grey wagtails breed on the banks of the Afon Mawddach that runs through the valley.

On still summer evenings, breeding nightjars can be heard ‘churring’ on the heathland, and tree pipits, pied flycatchers, redstarts, and wood warblers can all be spotted in the woods. Other regular visitors include whitethroats, sedge warblers, and grasshopper warblers, as well as redpolls that feed on the alder cones.

Large flocks of redwings and fieldfares arrive at Coed Garth Gell in the autumn from their Scandinavian breeding grounds. Look out for them as they gather to eat rowan berries from trees at the top of the reserve. Autumn is also a good time to spot woodcocks, while later in the year ravens make their tumbling displays, and water rails visit the wetlands of the Arthog Bog.

Although there is no on-site parking, there are several laybys and areas for cars. The nearest car park is at Fiddlers Elbow, a Snowdonia National Park picnic site just outside Bontddu.

From here, Coed Garth Gell reserve can be accessed via public footpaths. There are two circular trails inside the reserve which can be steep in places, and wet and slippery when it rains. They are only suitable for those who are used to rough hill walking, and sturdy footwear is a must.

Please note, dogs are allowed at the reserve, but must be kept under control.