Cilcain lies above the valley of the River Alyn in the foothills of Moel Famau and is a popular starting point for walkers and hikers. The highest peak in the Clwydian Range at 1,820 feet, Moel Famau and its ruined Jubilee Tower of 1810 are clearly visible from the centre of the village. This ancient settlement is listed in the Domesday Book and several cottages date back to the 16th and 17th century.

The Church of St Mary has a very fine carved oak hammer beam roof dating from the 15th century, one of the finest in Wales, and is thought to have been brought from Basingwerk Abbey during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. The churchyard is roughly circular, supposedly so that no demons could hide in the corners.

Driving from Cilcain takes you through some of the loveliest scenery in Flintshire, through the wooded valley and narrow stone bridge near Pantymwyn, right at the church in Gwernaffield and down to the hamlet of Cadole. Here a short detour right onto the A5119 at Leisure Tour Sign 49 brings you to Loggerheads Country Park, just across the border in Denbighshire, with its impressive limestone cliffs, woodland and riverside walks.

Back on the route, a right turn brings you to the village of Maeshafn. At this point, the route crosses very briefly into our neighbouring county of Denbighshire. As you skirt left of the village, you will see Moel Findig towering above you. One of the lesser known Clwydian summits, Moel Findig is managed as a Local Nature Reserve and offers splendid views over Flintshire. Equally fine is the vista that opens up, with Mold in the distance, as you approach Nercwys village.

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