The Forestry Commission Wales centre at Garwnant has been recognised by Visit Wales for the quality of the service it provides – just weeks after it was officially re-opened.
The centre, just five miles outside Merthyr Tydfil, has won a Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Service award which is presented to visitor attractions, accommodation or activity operators who meet the standards set out by Visit Wales.
The centre has quickly re-established itself at the heart of the community since undergoing extensive refurbishment over the past three years.
The national recognition by Visit Wales reflects everything from the provision of the facilities on site to the greeting from Forestry Commission Wales rangers.
Visitor Centre manager Sam Detheridge said, “We are very excited to be winning these awards so soon after our formal re-opening. We know how special the site is and it’s nice having others vindicate that.
“The award shows that we are delivering value for money services to the people of Wales and is a testament to the professional way we have gone about setting a high standard in Garwnant.”
There was cause for a double celebration when the caterers at the visitor centre’s Terrace Restaurant, Just Perfect Catering, were awarded a Silver Hygiene Award.
The award, by the local authority, Rhondda Cynon Taff, is rarely presented to new businesses.
Bridgend-based Just Perfect Catering operates a “keep it local” campaign and insists on sourcing its food within a 100-mile radius.
The Director of Just Perfect Catering, Louise Samuel, has also been shortlisted for a South Wales Business Award in the category Female Entrepreneur.
Other facilities at Garwnant include a new information centre, an education hall and conference facility.
In the surrounding woodlands, there are upgraded walking trails – including an all-ability walking trail – mountain bike trails, a bike park, adventure play area and an animal puzzle trail.
