Exploring Graig Fawr

Exploring Graig Fawr

Situated at the northernmost point of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), this landscape is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its extraordinary limestone habitats. Wonder through limestone grasslands, vibrant meadows, and dramatic rock formations, which provide sanctuary to a wealth of wildlife, including the rare Silver-studded Blue and White-letter Hairstreak butterflies, as well as nationally scarce plants such as Spiked Speedwell and Dark-red Helleborine. At the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the North Wales coast, making it an unmissable destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Walks

This hillside destination is a popular spot for walkers, offering vast open land to explore. Reaching the summit provides a stunning panorama of North Wales, delivering a truly rewarding experience.

The Prestatyn-Dyserth walkway offers a picturesque route for those looking to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and rich wildlife that Graig Fawr has to offer.

Graig Fawr is perfect for a day out with your dog. With several scenic footpaths to explore, it's earned a three-paw rating from the National Trust’s Pawprint system, making it a top choice for dog walkers. Please remember to always keep your dog on a lead and use the dog waste bins provided at the car park to help keep this natural space clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Dramatic views

Upon reaching the summit, walkers are treated to spectacular views across the Clwyd Valley, extending toward the Carneddau and Eryri (Snowdonia) mountains, as well out to the Irish sea. From this elevated spot, you can take in the picturesque coastal town of Prestatyn, as well as the iconic Great and Little Ormes. This remarkable viewpoint offers a stunning panorama, making the climb to the top well worth the effort.

A sanctuary for plants and butterflies

Graig Fawr is more than just a beautiful hillside. This unique ecosystem allows plant species such as Spiked Speedwell, Dark-red Helleborine and Nottingham Catchfly to thrive - which have disappeared from many other regions.

The limestone grasslands here are home to these rare and nationally scarce plants, making Graig Fawr a vital sanctuary for species that are becoming increasingly difficult to find elsewhere in the UK.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also be delighted to spot a vibrant array of butterflies and moths, including the Silver-studded Blue butterfly, believed to have originated from the Great Orme and found nowhere else in the world.

You might also encounter rare species such as the White-letter Hairstreak and Northern Brown Argus. For nature lovers, Graig Fawr offers an exciting chance to observe some of the UK’s rarest species in their natural habitat.

Supporting nature through sustainable management

This area is part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Management Scheme. Through controlled grazing, the National Trust is working to restore and maintain Graig Fawr’s diverse habitats. Controlled grazing is a natural and effective way to manage grassland habitats, promoting a greater variety of wildlife that we can all enjoy and benefit from. Over time, this approach will support the recovery of the precious limestone grassland and help nature thrive.

Visitors can support these efforts by staying on designated walking routes, keeping dogs on leads and using the kissing gates when crossing between fields. Some gates will remain open, while others will be locked, to ensure livestock stay safely within their designated areas and to minimise risks.