Corris is a quaint little village situated in the southern reaches of Snowdonia ~ a place known mostly to locals. Surrounded by hillsides & pine forests, it always feels remote. With its charming stone cottages, narrow lanes, and riverside, Corris captures Old Wales, and when we visit, we always feel a slower pace of life.

Our first stop is usually Idris Stores, a little independent coffee shop where we grab a loaf of sourdough, a coffee, and any last minute bits.

Stepping outside Idris Stores, a quick left turn brings us to the picturesque Minffordd Street, lined with traditional cottages and smoky chimneys. This street epitomises Old Wales, and whenever we go, we’re always asked where it is.

Just a five minute drive from Corris is the Tan y Coed hiking trail, which meanders through forests, streams, and open spaces ~ a way to experience Snowdonia without a strenuous hike. Tan y Coed is where we usually wild camp.

A short 8-minute drive away is the Centre For Alternative Technology an educational hub focused on environmental research and sustainability. We enjoy taking the cliff railway up to the centre and exploring the grounds, which include’s a children’s play area & cafe.

If we’re not wild camping, we stay at Ty’n y Cornel Hotel, just 7 minutes away, located on the shores of Tal-y-Llyn Lake at the base of Cadair Idris.

For breakfast, the nearby market town of Machynlleth is our go-to, for a chilled bite at Ty Medi ~ a cozy vegetarian and vegan independent.

Find time this December to enjoy the quiet, quaint, and slow charm of Corris.

~ Type of Walk: Easy, mostly flat, suitable for all abilities and ages.

~ Parking: On-street parking available in Corris or at the nearby Tan y Coed car park.

~ Wild Camping: Tan y Coed entrance which has toilet facilities.

~ Best Time to Visit: Any time of year.

~ Company: Yannick & Gia Han Le

Coordinates: 52.6539° N, 3.8398° W

Photography: Scott Woolley. Images captured on Contax T2, Late Autumn, 2022.