Exceptional Natural environment
Experience some of the very best natural landscapes in Europe.
The area around the river Dyfi is a special place. The UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve cradles the west of Powys, Ceredigion north of Aberystwyth, and the southern edge of Snowdonia National Park.
Approaching the Mid Wales Coast, the River Dyfi opens to wide sandy beaches and dunes surrounded by small coastal towns and villages. Each year in spring, Ynys Las National Nature Reserve welcomes its very own family of Ospreys returning from their winter home.
A mecca for visitors with an interest in the natural environment, diverse wildlife and green living, the Centre for Alternative Technology is one of the 'must visit' attractions in the area. CAT is a world-renowned eco centre that demonstrates practical solutions for a sustainable future.
Find places to stay in the unesco dyfi biosphere
Things to see and do in Dyfi Biosphere ...
The Dyfi Biosphere is part of a network of UNESCO 'Biosphere Reserves' throughout the world and one of only six in the UK where information and experiences can be shared and new ideas explored.
Experience first hand how welsh heritage, culture and economy can thrive in harmony with the natural environment.
The Dyfi Biosphere inspires communities to work together in creating a sustainable future we can all be proud of, connecting people with nature and cultural heritage, while strengthening the local economy.
Meet local artisan producers at the Corris Craft Centre and visit galleries and independant shops and cafes in the coastal villages surrounding the Dyfi Estuary.
towns & villages
Things to see and do
Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth
Viewed by many as the culture capital of Wales, Aberystwyth is home to the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth University and the Aberystwyth Arts Centre.
Pennau Craft & Coffee Shop
Bow Street
Pennau Craft and Coffee Shop in the village of Bow Street is just four miles north of the busy coastal resort of Aberystwyth. At Pennau Craft Coffee Shop, the accent is firmly on offering the best that Wales has to offer.
National Library of Wales
Aberystwyth
The National Library is one of the great libraries of the world. Since 1911 it's enjoyed the right to collect, free of charge, a copy of every printed work published in Britain and Ireland. Situated on Penglais Hill overlooking Aberystwyth.
Dyfi Distillery
Machynlleth
Dyfi Distillery produces artisan gins crafted with wild Welsh botanicals foraged in the Dyfi Biosphere. Based at Corris Craft Centre, near Machynlleth and regularly open to visitors. Best British Gin trophy two years running.
RSPB Ynys-hir Nature Reserve
Machynlleth
The RSPB Ynys-Hir nature reserve is a wildlife haven in the heart of Mid Wales. You can wonder from oak woodlands to salt marsh with views across the Dyfi estuary. Perfect for nature lovers & families wishing to discover their wild side.
King Arthurs Labyrinth
Machynlleth
Sail deep in the mountains of Southern Snowdonia, through a magical waterfall, into a mythical world filled with dragons, giants, fierce battles and the legendary King Arthur. Welsh legends unfold as your Dark Age Boatman guides you.
Aberdyfi | Aberdovey
Aberdovey
Aberdyfi is a small seaside village on the north side of the Dyfi estuary in southern Snowdonia.
Machynlleth
Machynlleth
The attractive market town of Machynlleth lies in the heart of the UNESCO Dyfi Bioshere. You'll find shops, galleries, cosy cafés and a local market held on Wednesday. Local attractions include the Centre for Alternative Technology
Y Tabernacl
Machynlleth
Throughout the year MOMA WALES shows Modern Welsh Art, in a series of constantly changing exhibitions featuring Wales' top artists. Works from the growing Tabernacle Collection are shown in rotation.
Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Aberystwyth
Award winning Aberystwyth Arts Centre is Wales’ largest arts centre and recognised as a 'national flagship for the arts'. It has a wide-ranging programme across all art forms including drama, dance, music, visual arts film & new media.
Dyfi Forest (NRW)
Machynlleth
The Dyfi Forest is located mainly to the north of the Afon Dyfi between Dolgellau to the north and Machynlleth to the south. Dyfi is a 6000ha forest - a spectacular landscape well worth exploring.
Centre For Alternative Technology
Machynlleth
Nestled in the stunning UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere in Mid Wales, the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre that researches and supports greener ways of living. Now open for pre-booked visits.
Ceredigion Museum & Gallery
Aberystwyth
Ceredigion museum is a celebration of Welsh history and heritage, housed in a restored Edwardian theatre. It is host to lively events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Situated in the heart of Aberystwyth, near the promenade.
Trefeddian Hotel
Aberdovey
The Trefeddian Hotel serve everything from a three course dining room lunch to more relaxed light bites, sandwiches and delicious homemade afternoon tea in the hotel lounges or on a sunny day on our stunning sea view terrace.
Ian Snow - Machynlleth
Machynlleth
Ian Snow started his business in 1978 selling from a trestle table on Machynlleth market. Since these early days it's now grown into three shops and a small wholesale business, with the main shop situated in Machynlleth.
Tywyn
Tywyn
Tywyn is a coastal town in Southern Snowdonia. The name Tywyn comes from the Welsh word for beach or sand dunes.
The Corris Cafe
Machynlleth
Our all-day menu features lots of fresh, seasonal and local produce. Call in for morning coffee, lunches and afternoon tea whilst enjoying the surrounding 9 Craft Studios and a range of visitor experiences including King Arthur's Labyrinth.
Rheilffordd Talyllyn Railway
Tywyn
Historic narrow-gauge steam railway set in beautiful, unspoilt Snowdonia. Running from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol, the line passes the delightful Dolgoch Falls and there are excellent forest walks at Nant Gwernol.
