Best lakes around Corris, a village in Mid Wales, serve as a base for exploring several picturesque lakes in the surrounding region. These "llyns" (Welsh for lakes) offer diverse natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The area features a mix of high mountain glacial lakes, serene woodland lakes, and accessible twin lakes, providing varied experiences for visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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First, a somewhat adventurous ride on the single track to the parking lot, which costs £5. The easy loop around the lake is very beautiful and relaxing – the sheep roam freely, but they keep their distance. Dogs must be on a leash, of course, but that's not a problem. Enjoy it – and if you're up for more, go for a longer loop. There are a few tables and benches above the parking lot for your picnic. You won't find any litter baskets, so you'll have to take them with you – which is perfectly fine, as it's a nature reserve. Highly recommended.
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We camped in bad weather but what a place to see
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Very nice pre-summit on the way to Pen-y-Cadair
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take a little time, have a sit and let it soak in
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A quieter peak compared to the Eryri hotspots with great views of Cardigan Bay.
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A circular walk through the historical Nannau estate and along the shore of Llyn Cynwch The Precipice has a fantastic array of qualities. From habitats such as woodlands and meadows to captivating views of Snowdonia’s mountain ranges. The path will take you through part of the Nannau estate which dates back to the 12th century and is steeped in fascinating Welsh history. The route ends on the shores of Llyn Cynwch—a working reservoir that provides nearby Dolgellau with water.
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Llyn Cynwch acts as both a 'prequel' and 'sequel' to the Precipice Walk, one of the most famous and popular walks in the area with breathtaking views. You'll get a glimpse of the lake if you take the route counterclockwise and you'll see it in all its glory if you finish the walk with a nice, steady stroll along the banks. Together with the Precipice Walk it is part of the historic Nannau estate and is a working water basin that has supplied drinking water for Dolgellau since 1968. Because it is a water basin, swimming is not allowed. (DOLGELLAU.uk)
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For breathtaking scenery and rewarding walks, consider Llyn Cau, a high mountain glacial lake on Cadair Idris, offering panoramic views of Snowdonia. The hike to it is challenging but worth it. Another excellent choice is Cregennan Lakes, known for their scenic beauty and views of the Mawddach Estuary and Barmouth Bridge, with various walking difficulties available.
Yes, Llyn Cynwch offers a gentle, flat, and peaceful circular walk along its banks, making it suitable for families and dogs. The area around Cregennan Lakes also provides easily accessible walks with a National Trust car park nearby, and the landscape often features sheep, which can be entertaining for children.
Llyn Cynwch is part of the historic Nannau estate, dating back to the 12th century, with folklore speaking of a marble palace belonging to fairies at its bottom. Llyn Cau is steeped in Welsh mythology, with legends of a terrifying serpent, the Afanc, residing in its depths, and the mountain Cadair Idris itself is tied to tales of giants.
Wild swimming is possible in some lakes, such as Llyn Cau, if you are brave enough for the refreshing dip. However, swimming is not permitted in Llyn Cynwch as it serves as a working water basin supplying drinking water for Dolgellau.
Many lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. Cregennan Lakes are popular for fishing wild brown trout and stocked blue and rainbow trout. Llyn Cynwch is also a top fishing spot managed by the Dolgellau Angling Association. For cycling, you can explore various routes, including those around the Cadair Idris area. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Corris or Gravel biking around Corris guides for more options.
Yes, several lakes are excellent for fishing. Cregennan Lakes allow fishing for wild brown trout and regularly stocked blue and rainbow trout. Llyn Cynwch is also a prime fishing location, with licenses issued by the Dolgellau Angling Association for brown and rainbow trout. Tal-y-Llyn Lake (Llyn Mwyngil) is also noted for its excellent fishing opportunities.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities. Spring brings the sight of lambs in the farmlands around Cregennan Lakes. For stargazing, the area around Lake Vyrnwy is recognized as a dark skies location, making it ideal for evening visits.
The circular walk around Llyn Cynwch is gentle, flat, and peaceful, making it an easy option for all abilities. The area around Cregennan Lakes also offers easily accessible walks with varying difficulties, including easier paths suitable for a leisurely stroll.
Although a bit further from Corris, Lake Vyrnwy is considered Wales' most beautiful lake. It's a large, man-made reservoir surrounded by an 11.75-mile perimeter road, featuring Rhiwargor Waterfall and a significant nature reserve managed by the RSPB. It offers a wide range of activities including walking, cycling, fishing, and water sports.
The hike to Llyn Cau on Cadair Idris is a challenging yet rewarding climb, often starting from the Minffordd car park. For an even more strenuous option, consider the Cadair Idris summit loop, which offers views of the lake from above. The area around Glasgwm summit also features Llyn y Fign, a high-elevation lake accessible via challenging routes.
Yes, for Cregennan Lakes, there is a National Trust car park nearby, making the spot very accessible. For Llyn Cau, the Minffordd car park is a common starting point for the hike. For Tal-y-Llyn Lake, parking is available near Llyn Mwyngil.
Llyn Cau is a stunning high mountain glacial lake with deep, clear waters, overlooked by the dramatic cliffs of Craig Cwm Amarch and Penygadair, formed by a cirque glacier. Cregennan Lakes are two beautiful twin lakes, with the larger one featuring a small island. Lake Vyrnwy boasts the impressive Rhiwargor Waterfall and is surrounded by diverse habitats including blanket bog, heather moorland, and woodland.
Many trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. For example, the circular walk around Llyn Cynwch is suitable for dogs. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.


Still not found your perfect lake around Corris? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.