A woodland trail that takes visitors back through centuries of Welsh history has been created by Forestry Commission Wales.
The new trail leads through ancient oak woodland in Ceredigion and wends its way to a holy well further up the valley from the ruined medieval Cistercian abbey of Strata Florida.
FC Wales has improved access to the holy well near Pontrhydfendigaid by waymarking a circular walk and stoning a very boggy section of the trail.
The well lies in an area of woodland that was felled several years ago but was recently replanted with a mixture of conifers and broadleaves.
The trail meanders through Tywi forest and crosses the Afon Glassffrwd on stepping stones, then passes the ruins of Ty’n y Garreg, an old farmstead which was originally thatched.
FC Wales has placed an interpretive sign at the end of the tarmac road beyond Strata Florida Abbey, giving directions and information to the well. The walk takes about an hour and is quite rough in places.
Holy wells are often attributed with miraculous healing properties and CADW, the guardian of Wales’ built heritage, declared the Pontrhydfendigaid well a scheduled ancient monument, the highest category of protected site.
Brian Hanwell, FC Wales Local Area manager, said, “Holy wells are often associated with medieval religious foundations, but many are believed to have far older pagan water worship origins.
“By improving access to this fascinating monument, we hope many more people will be able to enjoy this experience and learn more about our rich heritage.”
The trail was created over the past year, but the work involved was as nothing compared to the effort put in by those who built the well centuries ago.
Carefully cut slate slabs – which must have been carried from miles away – line the cistern and several rough steps descend into the well, while a spring feeds water into the cistern.
Local resident Irene Earis said, “Forestry Commission Wales has really put in some hard work, stoning out a path and constructing a way across the stream via stepping stones.
“The result is a varied and attractive walk that most people could manage and children would especially enjoy.
“In the summer, when bluebells spread beneath the trees near the river, it will be particularly beautiful. And, of course, it will get even better in the years ahead when natural woodland regrows around the well itself.”
