The best walks and hikes around Cors Goch National Nature Reserve

Yes, dogs are welcome at Cors Goch but must be kept on a short lead at all times. This is to protect the sensitive wildlife, including ground-nesting birds and grazing livestock, that make the reserve their home. Please be mindful of the varied habitats and stick to the marked paths.

Yes, there is a small, free car park at the main entrance to the Cors Goch National Nature Reserve. However, spaces are limited, so it's a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season. Please park considerately and do not block any access points.

The terrain is very mixed, which is part of the reserve's charm. You'll find a combination of well-maintained boardwalks that cross the marshy fenland, as well as grassy paths and some steeper, uneven ground on the heathland sections. It's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as some areas can be muddy, particularly after rain.

Yes, the area offers several easier options suitable for families. The boardwalk sections within the reserve itself provide a straightforward way to experience the unique wetland environment. For a short and gentle hike nearby with lovely scenery, consider the View of Mainland Mountains loop from Brynteg, which is about 3 miles long and relatively flat.

Reaching Cors Goch by public transport can be challenging as it's in a rural location. The nearest main villages with bus services are Benllech and Pentraeth. From there, it would be a considerable walk or a short taxi ride to the reserve entrance. It's best to check current local bus timetables for services to the surrounding area before you travel.

Cors Goch is a biodiversity hotspot. Hikers can see a spectacular array of wildflowers, including various species of wild orchids in the limestone grasslands. The reserve is also home to insectivorous plants. Birdwatchers may spot reed buntings, sedge warblers, and marsh harriers over the wetlands. Keep an eye out for adders basking in sunny spots on the heath, as well as numerous species of butterflies and dragonflies.

The reserve itself has a network of paths that can be combined to form a circular walk, allowing you to experience its different habitats. For a longer circular route that explores the wider area, the Marianglas Crossroads – View of the Sea from Ynys Môn loop from Benllech is a great moderate option that takes you through countryside and offers coastal views.

While the reserve itself is purely a natural space, you can find pubs and cafes in the nearby villages. The Ship Inn at Red Wharf Bay is a popular choice for food and drink with a view. You can even make it part of your hike on the The Ship Inn – Red Wharf Bay loop from Brynteg.

There are over 100 hiking routes to explore in and around the Cors Goch area on Komoot. These range from short, easy nature walks within the reserve to longer, more challenging hikes that take in the surrounding coastline and countryside. About half of these are classified as easy, making the region accessible for various fitness levels.

The trails in this area are highly regarded by the Komoot community. Reviewers often praise the unique and varied landscape, from the boardwalks across the fen to the views from the heathland. The quietness of the reserve and the abundance of wildlife are frequently mentioned as major highlights.

Both are important wetland reserves on Anglesey, but they offer slightly different experiences. Cors Goch is larger and has more habitat variety, including acidic heathland and open water like Llyn Cadarn, with some steeper sections. Cors Bodeilio is known for being a very quiet and peaceful walk, particularly noted for its wildflowers and the free-roaming ponies that help manage the landscape.