The forest is brimming with intrigue and enchantment (Image: Morgan & Davies, Lampeter / rightmove)
There’s a pocket of Wales where it feels as though the clock has stopped, where the air is heavy with the smell of damp earth and moss, and mist drifts between ancient trees like ghostly tendrils.
This magical location is the Rheidol Valley in Ceredigion, a woodland so mesmerising and mysterious it could have been lifted straight from a storybook.
The Rheidol Valley ranks highly on passionate travellers’ bucket lists, particularly the Vale of Rheidol Railway experience listed amongst the world’s finest destinations, with travel experts at Ski Vertigo stating: “It’s one of the most magical landscapes in Britain, a hidden gem where waterfalls sparkle, trees whisper, and steam trains drift through the mist like something from a dream.”
The Rheidol Valley extends eastwards from Aberystwyth, following the winding River Rheidol along its 19-mile path from the Nant-y-Moch Reservoir down to the shoreline. The deeper you travel, the more peaceful it grows, with just the noise of rushing water, rustling leaves, and distant bird calls.
In some areas, sunlight barely breaks through the tree cover, bathing moss-draped rocks in an otherworldly emerald light. The air feels fresh and damp, and every step appears to echo softly, as if the forest is listening.
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Stunning views over the Rheidol Valley are a traveller’s delight (Image: Janet Baxter)
Enchanting secrets of the Rheidol Valley
The woodlands near Devil’s Bridge village are steeped in mystery and wonder. Gnarled oak trees tower above the paths, while thin streams tumble down steep hillsides.
Unexpected cascades appear amongst the foliage, their mist shimmering in the light like a dusting of silver. If you stop to listen closely, you might hear more than just the rush of water – a faint whisper in the wind or the creak of an old bridge swaying in the fog.
The Vale of Rheidol Railway, a charming steam train that seems plucked from a different time, chugs through the valley. It meanders leisurely through the forest, puffing out white clouds that drift amongst the trees. Locals say its whistle can be heard long before it comes into sight, a soft, ghostly sound echoing across the hills.
Devil’s Bridge, Aberystwyth, between 1890-1900 (Image: undefined)
This train has been running since the Edwardian era, travelling past Aberffrwd, Rheidol Falls, Rhiwfron, and ending at Devil’s Bridge, a journey that feels like stepping back in time.
Upon arrival at Devil’s Bridge, the story becomes even more magical. Three bridges are stacked one on top of the other, built over centuries. According to local lore, the first was constructed by the Devil himself, as the locals believed the gorge too deep to cross. A deal was struck – the soul of the first creature to cross would belong to him.
But, as the legend goes, the cunning locals sent a dog across first, tricking the Devil and saving their souls. However, when the wind howls through the bridge at dusk, some say it sounds like a low growl.
Standing at the top of the bridge, visitors can look down upon the Devil’s Bridge Falls, where the Mynach Falls cascade almost 300 feet into the gorge beneath. The atmosphere is fresh and damp, and sometimes a subtle rainbow appears above the rushing water. Some travellers claim that the mist creates formations that look like faces, which disappear the moment you look away.
Journeying via the steam train will provide the finest way to witness the valley (Image: Janet Baxter)
Across the region, multiple walking trails take you deeper into the valley’s heart. Some are short and easy, while others become difficult and dangerous after wet weather , reports Wales Online.
The tracks meander past hidden pools, small waterfalls, and ancient stone walls covered in climbing ivy. In spring, wildflowers blanket the woodland floor; in autumn, the leaves turn to burnished gold, washing the whole valley in warm tones.
How to get there
Travel experts describe the Rheidol Valley as a place that feels alive with “a forest full of secrets, where every path leads deeper into its story”.
They recommend travelling by steam train as it offers the best way to see the valley as you glide through mist-covered hills and over old viaducts – as if following a forgotten journey.
For the best visit, experts suggest taking the train from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, exploring the forest trails, and seeing the waterfalls before heading back. Early morning or late evening are most magical, when the light is soft and the woods feel almost enchanted.
Whether you’re drawn to its walks, waterfalls, or legends, the Rheidol Valley will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s not just a forest; it’s a living fairy tale.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
