Moel Famau: New donkey walk business launches

Moel Famau Donkeys will be offering customers a unique experience of walking a designated trail alongside some gentle four-legged friends. 

Owner Mathew Davies' family has a steep history within the area of outstanding natural beauty. 

"We are a family run business who have been running a business from the site since 1977," he said. 

"We began as a dairy farm on our 140 acres. In 1991, we diversified into a Sawmill and Horse Bedding Production facility.

"And now want to go down a different path - tourism."

Mathew Davies and lead trainer Emily Williams with some of the donkeys.

But a major part of why Mathew, a former schoolteacher, has decided to take on the new venture is the benefits it will have on people's mental health.

"As a former psychology student, I have an understanding on some of the things which benefit people's mental well-being," he said.

"The outdoors and animals are both great for mental health - so putting them together like we are doing is a perfect match. Donkeys are very calming animals, and have helped people in the armed forces and terrorist attack survivors to cope with PTSD, as well as proving to be great therapy animals for children with autism and learning difficulties.

"We want it to be a place of comfort for people."

Mathew said he has already been contacted by North East Wales Mind, schools and charities who are all keen to link up with the business. 

The 40-acre site has two trails which people will follow - with two guides providing an insight and information on the area. 

The business has six donkeys, including one from Texas in the USA - Bess, Tilly, Polly, Blodwen, Nansi and Rosie.

"There has a been a huge amount of interest from the local community," Mathew said. 

"We already have 900 followers and 750 likes on our Facebook page, and we've already had 100 bookings.

"I'm really excited about this new venture, and I think a lot of people are, too."

They have had 170 trees donated by the North Wales Wildlife Trust. The trail itself is roughly one mile long and reaches up to 1,000ft above sea level at its highest point. The first half of the walk involves a gradual climb as it overlooks Llanferres village, Loggerheads and Colomendy.

Higher up and further afield you will see towards the Wirral, Flint, Deeside and Liverpool. There will be opportunities to take in the view from bespoke, handmade, benches and plenty of chances for photos with the donkeys.