It’s been a long while since we did one of our ‘Out & About’ posts.

There’s been a big house move and lots of DIY jobs to do recently. Then, of course, the Covid restrictions we’ve had to contend with this year. So, all in all, it hasn’t been the best time for getting out and exploring. However, when time and opportunity allows, we still head off for walks or a short drive somewhere.

We have lots of new things and places to discover. One such location that’s been on our list since we moved to Wales is Ynyslas.

It’s a stunning area that encompasses a multitude of habitats for wildlife… and people!

It’s part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve which serves to protect the landscape here.

There’s both sandy and pebble beaches, dunes, salt marsh, raised peat bog and grassland contained within it.

We arrived on a perfect sunny day, received a warm welcome from a warden and parked on the beach car park (normally £2 all day, but free on this occasion).

There are a number of way-marked trails that you can take – or just ‘freestyle’ and wander around.

Some people appeared to unpack chairs from the car and just plonk themselves right where they parked. However, you didn’t have to move far to get a bit more space if so desired.

We walked the 2½-mile ‘Ynyslas Trail’ which took in the dunes, beach, estuary and salt marsh, thus giving a nice taster of the scenery and various habitats. (It also means that you’ve ‘earned’ your cup of tea or ice-cream at the end).

Having done that, we spent a couple of hours on the beach taking in the fabulous views both out to sea and inland.

We really loved the place… and it’s less than half an hour’s drive from our new house.

We’ll be returning often to explore further or just relax with a picnic.