The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
If you go down to the woods
Sam Wylie-Harris finds joy in forests around the world
Looking for some forest inspiration? Whether for a visit in person, or simply to admire from afar, here are five to explore…
The New Forest, England
You only have to head to the south coast to immerse yourself in the New Forest – voted the number one national park in Europe in the 2022 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. Conveniently close to sandy beaches, you can explore the woods, heathlands, rivers and wildflower meadows by foot or bike, with more than 100 miles of cycle paths.
Getting into the saddle and horse riding is one of the biggest attractions – but with water sports, golfing and fishing, there’s something for everyone.
Tahoe National Forest, California
A wilderness made up of Sugar pines, Douglas firs and Ponderosa pines to name but a few, the Tahoe National Forest is north-west of Lake
Tahoe and soars above the lake’s west shore, Emerald Bay. The best way to admire the vista is from Inspiration Point, which sits 600ft above the water. Options include explore the hiking trails, and there’s even the opportunity to camp among the tall pines (there are designated campgrounds). Or you can always take to the road and travel through the forest along one of the highways.
Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Situated between the majestic Tilarán and Guanacaste mountain ranges, the Arenal Volcano is active – so here’s your chance to explore the Costa Rican rainforest as well as trekking through volcanic trails and lava beds. Cited as an
ecological paradise, Arenal Volcano National Park offers waterfalls, fascinating wildlife including white-faced monkeys and keelbilled toucans, hot springs and the chance to hike the Cerro Chato, an extinct volcano with the promise of
a topaz-coloured lake when you’ve conquered its peak.
El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico
Tropical rainforests can be a real challenge, but with family-friendly trails at a little under a mile long, or action-packed adventure if you’re after greater rewards, the El Yunque National Forest is a goldmine for all. It’s home to hundreds of rare plant and animal species, including the coqui frog – with special toe pads instead of webbed feet to climb and cling to trees and leaves. There’s also a zipwire for extra excitement.
Sagano Bamboo Forest, Japan
A stunning retreat on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan’s Sagano Bamboo Forest is a haven for appreciating the beauty of bamboo – a place that takes you to another world where bamboo stalks tower above you, and sunlight streams through, with the soothing sound of swaying stalks whispering in the wind. A densely packed grove with paths and trails, you can also explore the surrounding tree-covered hills and mountains, shrines, historic temples, zen gardens and photogenic tea fields.