Nestled in Gwynedd, Wales, this picturesque village sits alongside the river and boasts far more than initially apparent.

Located between Dolgellau and Machynlleth, Corris is a delightful village with two remarkable attractions nearby that provide an excellent surprise for keen ramblers. Atrailwinds along streams and through forests, leading you to the Abercwmeiddaw quarry.

This spectacular site, situated at Corris Uchaf, was a former slate quarry which functioned from the 1840s through to 1938. You can access it by starting from a lay-by on the A487, taking the route towards Corris Uchaf and carrying on along the bridleway.

• I visited UK's most popular Christmas market and it blew Edinburgh's away


• The best rated UK Christmas market expected to get snow this year

The remnants of this quarry were previously utilised to support the CorrisRailway'soperations, transporting goods to the Cambrian Railways. Today, they lie deep within a well-loved walking route for hikers to discover and investigate what remains.

In an AllTrails review of the walk, one rambler said: "Steep incline to start but rewarded with Little Italy, which was really cool! Beautiful path through the woods with other structures to look at."

"Through fields before entering the quarry. The binoculars are a must if you can clamber up the path. A small waterfall and farmlands to finish. Our favourite walk from a week in Wales – so much variation and interesting things to see!"

Tucked away in the Welsh countryside near a quaint village, you'll find an unexpected sight: a miniature Italian-style village, complete with intricate models. Known as Mark's Folly, this hidden gem is filled with replicas of famous Italian landmarks, painstakingly handcrafted over several years by the late Mark Bourne and his wife Muriel.

This extraordinary village was rediscovered by locals who have volunteered their time to restore it to its former splendour, and now boasts a collection of 200 items. Alongside miniatures of Florence's Duomo and Venice's Rialto Bridge, there's also a charming English model village.

Overgrown ivy, weeds and plants had engulfed the structures, making it a challenge to uncover them all and reveal the exquisite detail of the sculptures. One keen walker left a glowing review of the trail, saying: "Honestly one of my favourite walks just because it was so interesting. I really enjoyed the 'Little Italy' section and reading the inscriptions on the cemetery stones.

"The path was easy to follow, although very wet and muddy in places. Crossing the river was fun. We parked in the Corris Workshop, which was free but a little further away. Very dog friendly."

Another recent visitor said: "A really good walk but a very steep climb to start. Worth it though when you're rewarded with Little Italy. Also loved exploring the copper mine and the slate quarry further along. I walked all the way down to the little lake at the bottom. Look out for the heart-shaped mine entrance."