This beautiful woodland has been named among the best in Europe
This stunning woodland is located in Dartmoor(Image: Getty)
One of Britain’s last remaining ancient temperate rainforests has been recognised amongst Europe’s most enchanting forest trails this summer. Wistman’s Wood, nestled within Dartmoor, secured third place on the list thanks to its remote location, centuries-old dwarf oak trees and captivating woodland scenery.
Travel specialists at Avis examined lesser-known European forests with Perućica Rainforest, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, claiming the top position and Spain’s Otzarreta Forest taking second place.
Though Wistman’s Wood was the sole British entry, it’s easy to see why this breathtaking location earned its spot.
Located just 31 miles from Exeter Airport, Wistman’s Wood offers convenient access for those exploring Devon.
The forest’s remarkable 500-year-old dwarf oaks have been twisted into gnarled, moss-draped shapes through centuries of Atlantic weather, emerging from a carpet of lichen-clad granite rocks.
The area feels more like a concealed treasure than a typical woodland, offering rewards to those who value ambience, legend and untamed scenery over picture-perfect vantage points.
Writing on Tripadvisor, one recent guest to the woodland commented: “Stunning ancient woodland that will make you feel like you are in a fairytale. A must-visit place. A lovely and easy walk from a small car park opposite the Two Bridges Hotel.
“The woodland is hidden in the fields, you cannot see it from the main road. It roughly takes one hour to reach it from the car park. We visited in autumn on a rainy day, and still, it was magical. This is one of the most unique woodlands you can find in the UK.”
A further visitor enthused: “The wood was fun, the lichen hung like Hagrid’s beard. The sights were astonishing and we saw loads of cows and sheep. I would recommend it to everybody.”
Europe’s most magical forests:
1. Perućica Rainforest, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2. Otzarreta Forest, Spain
3. Wistman’s Wood, England
4. Garajonay National Park, Spain (La Gomera)
5. Trollskogen, Sweden
6. Fanal Forest, Portugal
7. Białowieża Forest, Poland and Belarus
8. Brocéliande Forest, France
9. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
10. Hallerbos, Belgium