A SNOWDONIA forest with its own gold mine has been put up for sale by a world-famous wine writer.

The 500 acre piece of land, called Cae Gwian near Barmouth has been put up for sale by its owner, Hugh Johnson.

Although the site features a rare gold and copper mine, the £3.75 million estate lacks an actual house.

The 19th-century copper gold mine found on site has been out of use since 1900, but potential buyers can still spot the ruined mill building.

The old mine office has also been semi-restored, with the current owners using it as a shelter and picnic spot.

The land itself is also up to gold-standard, having been rated one of the best medium-sized forests in wales and being awarded with gold for the best managed woodland.

Hugh Johnson, the current owner, has owned and managed the property since 1991, alongside writing his best-selling annual Pocket Wine Books.

He said: "Cae Gwian is an unusual forest of exceptional beauty and charm, stretching over two hill ranges.

"Stone walls reflect it's history as pasture, and in the centre are the remains of a 19th century goldmine.

"Cae Gwian has not only proved a good investment; it has been our family resort for a generation."

Located on the Mawddach estuary, it has won Royal Welsh awards for its commercial management.

A spokesman for agents Tustins said: "This is a unique opportunity to own a magnificent slice of rural Wales.

"The special combination of a Snowdonia National Park location and all the ingredients of an outstanding commercial forest should be attractive to those whose desire to own a fast-growing forestry asset."