Nant Melin downloadable version of this leaflet for printing (109 KB)

Grid References O.S. Explorer map 187 Llandovery. Main entrance: SN729466, Site centre: SN728467

Status The reserve forms part of the Cwm Doethie-Mynydd Mallaen Oakwoods Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Tenure The site was leased from 1969 by the Trust and subsequently purchased in 1973.

Description

Ancient upland Oak woodland and waterfalls.

The reserve is made up of 2.4 ha of deciduous woodland and about 0.5 ha of rough pasture in the upper Tywi catchment. The woodland lies on the steep Nant Melin valley side, the wet pasture above lying on a much gentler slope.

The Nant Melin stream forms the eastern boundary flowing over a series of small but impressive waterfalls. Above the fence at the western end, the slope lessens, and the habitat changes to pasture, while a small stream marks the northern boundary, with two small fields beyond. Several wet flushes arise in these fields, and flow down to meet other springs which emerge in the woodland.