Visiting Conwy…
Conwy’s high quality natural environment is a key factor in the tourism of the rural parts of the County Borough. The habitats of rural Conwy range from limestone grasslands, wetlands and wooded river valleys, to upland moorlands and mountains, and the high quality of the landscape which those habitats create is reflected by the fact that nearly 50% of rural Conwy falls within the Snowdonia National Park.
The area is rich in biodiversity, with many designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest, four of which are Natura 2000 sites (sites of European significance designated under the Habitats Directive or the Birds Directive). The Natura 2000 sites include the extensive Eryri/Snowdonia Special Area of Conservation and the Migneint-Arenig-Dduallt Special Area of Conservation and Special Protection Area.
The natural environment of Conwy provides opportunities to develop and support the rural economy through its sustainable use and enjoyment – not only by providing a superb visual panorama for visitors to the area, but also through the development of active recreational opportunities which sensitively utilise the local environmental characteristics and topography. This has already been demonstrated through, for example, the mountain bike trails developed in the Gwydyr Forest and the walking and cycling trails developed in the Hiraethog area.
As well as the outstanding natural landscape, Conwy also offers a range of outdoor activities, cultural and historical sites including castles and a diverse range of museums. Conwy is easily accessible from the A55 with Manchester only an hour away, excellent train services are available along the Conwy coast line and down into Conwy valley.
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