The Mawddach estuary is totally undeveloped and admired for its tranquillity. With the Rhinog hills on one side and the Cadair Idris massif on the other it is not surprising that this celebrated trail delights both walkers and cyclists.

The path follows the course of an old railway line and so is level. Apart from the first section at Dolgellau it is unsealed, but since it was resurfaced a couple of years ago it is generally in good condition.

The views are varied and unfailingly delightful. On a clear sunny day the pièce de résistance is probably crossing the three quarter mile long railway bridge over the mouth of the estuary into Barmouth.

The route will appeal to birdwatchers, and the former signal box at the old station at Penmaenpool has been converted into an attractive RSPB observatory. The trail has occasional picnic areas and viewpoints and little nature reserves.

START: the car park on the right of the bridge at the entrance into Dolgellau (Grid Ref: 727179 OS map 50,000 No 124 Porthmadog and Dolgellau). The large car park is expensive and one can save pounds by using the adjacent (but not all that well signed) long stay car park: go into the main car park and along a short lane on its left side to the car park opposite a cricket ground. There is also free parking alongside the trail at Penmaenpool and some people may like to start the ride there (Grid Ref: 695185).

The trail finishes at the end of the railway bridge at the beginning of Barmouth. Almost everyone who does the trail visits the resort. Turn Left at the main road, taking care as it is often busy, or one can dismount and walk on the pavement - the harbour is only a few yards away.

After the harbour Barmouth has a long sea front. Cycling is permitted on the promenade, though this is narrow and crowded during the season: experienced cyclists may prefer the road which is not too busy and fairly wide.

Plas Gwyn - holiday cottage conveniently close to the Mawddach Trail and the owner is a keen cyclist!