Top 10 Lakes around Bontnewydd
Best lakes around Bontnewydd are found in the surrounding region of Snowdonia National Park, near Caernarfon. This area features glacially formed lakes set amidst mountains, offering diverse natural landscapes. The lakes provide opportunities for outdoor activities and are significant for their ecology and history. Bontnewydd serves as a base for exploring these natural features.
Best lakes around Bontnewydd
- The most popular lakes is Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn, a settlement and lake located directly on Llyn Padarn. It is a popular starting point for hikes to Snowdon and offers scenic views.
- Another must-see spot is Llyn Cwellyn, a natural monument and reservoir in Snowdonia National Park. Visitors can expect dramatic mountain views and opportunities for hiking and fishing.
- Visitors also love Llyn y Gadair, a glacial lake nestled beneath the peak of Cyfrwy. Its clear, cold waters and picturesque setting make it a notable natural feature.
- Bontnewydd is known for glacial lakes, mountain lakes, and reservoirs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct characteristics and activities.
- The lakes around Bontnewydd are appreciated by the komoot community, with 575 upvotes and 51 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn
Highlight • Settlement
Long before it was a draw to tourists and hikers, Llanberis was a slate mining town. The Dinorwig Quarry's slate tips are a stark reminder of the region’s heritage.
The village is blessed with several good outdoor gear shops and characterful places to eat and drink.
Tip by
Llyn Padarn Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Llyn Cwellyn
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
It has amazing views well worth a stop.
Tip by
View of Llyn Padarn from Pont Pen-y-Llyn
Highlight • Viewpoint
Its absolutely stunning and well worth the ride.
Tip by
Marchlyn Mawr Reservoir Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Bontnewydd.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Llyn Cwellyn is a reservoir in North Wales which supplies drinking water to parts of Gwynedd and Anglesey. It lies on the Afon Gwyrfai in Nant y Betws between Moel Eilio and Mynydd Mawr in the northern part of Snowdonia National Park. It has an area of 215 acres, and is over 120 ft deep. It has amazing views well worth a stop.
2
0
On a clear day, from this end of Llyn Padarn you’ll get an enticing view of Snowdon and other peaks. Its absolutely stunning and well worth the ride.
4
0
Nice place. I especially recommend the ice cream at Giorgio's!
2
0
Great views from the bridge at the western end of Llyn Padarn. Look across the lake at the old Dinorwig slate mining and the Electric Mountain. To the right you can see over Llanberis and up onto Snowdon.
2
0
Found this lovely back road behind the Llyn Cwellyn with great views of the Arenig Hills. Highly recommend this road rather than using the main road around the lake.
0
0
Perfect base for all the Welsh 3000s, plus theres Petes Eats, what more could you ask for.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Bontnewydd?
Visitors frequently enjoy Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn, which offers a blend of natural beauty, historical relevance from the slate industry, and various recreational opportunities. Another highly regarded spot is Llyn Cwellyn, known for its dramatic mountain views and tranquil atmosphere.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Bontnewydd?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Llyn Padarn is excellent for families, with Padarn Country Park, water sports, and the Llanberis Lake Railway. Llyn Dinas also provides scenic, family-friendly walks around its southern shore and shallow areas for wild swimming, though caution is advised.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around these lakes?
The lakes around Bontnewydd are glacially formed and set amidst the majestic mountains of Snowdonia National Park. You'll find stunning mountain backdrops, ancient Sessile Oak woodlands (like Coed Dinorwig near Llyn Padarn), and diverse wildlife. Llyn Padarn and Llyn Cwellyn are notable for supporting natural populations of Arctic char.
Are there good hiking trails near the lakes around Bontnewydd?
Absolutely. Llyn Cwellyn serves as a starting point for the Snowdon Ranger Path, one of the routes to Snowdon's summit. The Llyn Padarn Trail offers a mix of busy lakeside activity and quieter scenic strolls. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the area, including easy hikes, by checking the easy hikes guide around Bontnewydd.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes near Bontnewydd?
Yes, wild swimming is popular. Llyn Padarn was designated a Bathing Water in 2014, making it a well-known spot. Llyn Dinas also has shallow waters and small shingle beaches suitable for wild swimming, but always exercise caution due to cold temperatures and varying depths.
Which lakes are dog-friendly for walks?
Llyn Dinas is particularly dog-friendly, with a path around its southern shore that is free of grazing livestock, making it ideal for dog walks and swimming. Many trails around the other lakes are also suitable for dogs, but always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What historical or cultural sites are near the lakes?
Near Llyn Padarn, you can explore Padarn Country Park, which includes the National Slate Museum and Vivian Quarry, offering insights into the region's industrial heritage. The Llanberis Lake Railway also provides scenic trips past Dolbadarn Castle. Llyn Dinas is steeped in local myths and legends, including tales of King Arthur.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Bontnewydd?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer warmer weather for water sports and longer daylight hours for hiking. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter can offer dramatic, tranquil landscapes, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there opportunities for cycling or mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find gravel biking routes around Bontnewydd, including trails that pass by scenic areas. For more details on routes and difficulties, refer to the gravel biking guide around Bontnewydd.
Where can I find good viewpoints of the lakes?
For spectacular views of Llyn Padarn and the surrounding mountains, including Snowdon, visit Pont Pen-y-Llyn. Llyn Cwellyn also offers dramatic mountain vistas, with Snowdon providing a stunning backdrop. Many trails around the lakes provide excellent photo opportunities.
What kind of wildlife can be found in and around the lakes?
The lakes are ecologically significant. Llyn Padarn and Llyn Cwellyn are rare habitats for the Arctic char. Brown trout are abundant in Llyn Cwellyn, and otters are regularly sighted near the Castell Cidwm end of the lake. The ancient woodlands also support diverse birdlife and other native species.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' lakes worth exploring?
While not exactly hidden, Llyn y Gadair, nestled beneath the peak of Cyfrwy, offers a breathtaking glacial lake experience with clear, cold waters and a picturesque setting amidst Snowdonia's dramatic landscape. Its serene beauty makes it a notable natural feature.
Most popular attractions around Bontnewydd
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Bontnewydd? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
