We’ve heard about a lot of different travel trends over the years – from glamping and tramping to adventure travel and dating coach trips – if you want a holiday with a difference, there’s bound to be one out there for you.

But, this week we heard of a new travel trend that we’ve yet to come across! Forest Bathing is apparently taking the travel world by storm, so for today’s blog we delve into this new travel idea, and how you can indulge in Forest Bathing in Snowdonia.

Forest Bathing is exactly as it sounds – you literally indulge in “bathing” in a forest. It’s long been a popular activity in Japan, but over there it’s called Shinrin-yoku. Japanese culture strongly believes in the restorative power of nature, and forest bathing has been a recognised treatment by the government since the early 1980s.

Forest Bathing is literally the art of allowing nature to wash over you during a visit, or a walk, to the forest. It’s thought that reconnecting with nature can lead to decreased stress and mood enhancement. Forest Bathing can help with disorders such as stress, anger, anxiety, depression and sleeplessness. In Japan there are even forests dedicated to Forest Bathing, where you aren’t allowed to do anything but wallow in the beauty and tranquility of nature.

But, these aren’t new revelations to many people who already enjoy heading out for a walk in our beautiful Snowdonia and who recognise the benefits of a stroll among the natural beauty. Forest Bathing does however encourage deep relaxation and even meditation. But, a simple walk in the woods, immersed in the peace and beauty of Mother Nature will do the trick just as well.

So, if you fancy giving this latest of travel trends a go, then here are some top spots close to the Oakeley Arms Hotel where you can give Forest Bathing in Snowdonia a go!

• Maentwrog Forest Nature Reserve – situated just to the east of the Oakeley Arms, and within walking distance are the beautiful woodlands of Maentwrog Forest. You can find walk details for a stroll through this forest in the WALKS section of our blog (click here)
• Coed y Brenin – Literally translating into English as the King’s Forest, this beautiful spot certainly lives up to its regal name. It’s known for mountain biking tracks but there are also lots of walking routes for you to explore and discover. A truly beautiful spot – about 20 minutes drive from the Oakeley Arms.
• Coed Aber Artro, Llanbedr – situated in a tiny coastal village not far from Harlech, these beautiful woodlands are often tranquil and quiet so are an ideal forest bathing spot. The Nature Reserve at Coed LletyWalter is also close by.
• Llyn Mair, Maentwrog – also very close to the Oakeley Arms, this beautiful area is home not only to a lovely lake but also acres of wild woodland that were once part of the famed Oakeley estate. Follow the numerous footpaths through the woods and around the lake to truly connect with nature and the beautiful trees you’ll find there.
• The Gwyllt at Portmeirion – the gorgeously wild landscape that surrounds the nearby Italianate village of Portmeirion is absolutely stunning. Home to a huge array of stunning native, and non-native, plants and trees, it’s easy to lose yourself and find your balance in this beautiful woodlands. Explore the woodland from the village for a myriad of footpaths and trails through the trees.

So, why not give it a go this weekend? Not only could you discover somewhere new, but you might also discover a whole new you!

Image by Adriana Herbut on freeimages.com