Best lakes around Llandygai are situated in a region characterized by its mountainous terrain and historical slate mining heritage. The area features numerous natural lakes nestled within valleys and cwm, offering diverse landscapes. It serves as a starting point for various outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring natural monuments. The region's geography includes significant peaks and valleys, providing a backdrop for its many water bodies.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Y Garn is a fine hill, usually climbed from Ogwen Valley by it's West ridge, or as part of the walk along the Glyders range between Elidir Fawr and the Glyders themselves. There is however another way up, the East Ridge, which is a Grade 2 scramble and starts from Llyn Idwal.
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Cool cave that many people walk past, going on for quite a bit!
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Llyn Idwal is a lake (approximately 800 by 300 metres, or 28 hectares) in Cwm Idwal in the Glyderau Mountains of Snowdonia. On the north-western edge of Llyn Idwal is a small pebble beach, which is occasionally used by visitors for recreation. Swimming is not permitted as it is in a nature reserve.
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It can be windy and cloudy here. There are marks to find a trail in the cloud. Also on the top there is a nice area to hide from wind and rest. If not in the cloud, the view is awesome
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Llyn Llydaw (the name comes from the Welsh and means Brittany Lake) is a long, thin lake. It is one of the most visited lakes in the UK. Many walk past this lake on the Miners' Track.
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A large and grassy mountain, in the Glyderau range. With a summit of 914 metres above sea level, Y Garn is the 10th highest of the 15 Welsh 3000s. Y Garn translates to "The Rock or The Cairn", making it a relatively common name for a mountain, resulting in this Y Garn, being one of four Y Garns in Wales, but this one is the biggest and arguable the most majestic! On a good day, the summit provides unmatched views of the North Wales coast, Snowdon and the Ogwen Valley.
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Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Cwm Idwal offers a circular walk from its visitor center, which is generally considered family-friendly. Additionally, Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn is a great option, featuring the Llanberis Lake Railway and various activities around the lake.
The region offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents. For example, you can find easy loops like the Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage, or more difficult routes such as the Y Garn to Glyder Fach loop. You can explore many hiking options in the area by visiting the Hiking around Llandygai guide.
Yes, Cwm Idwal is known for its circular walk that starts from the visitor center, offering beautiful views of Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen. This is a popular and accessible option for many visitors.
While Cwm Idwal is popular, Llyn Bochlwyd (Bochlwyd Lake) offers a more serene experience. Nestled beneath Glyder Fach and Tryfan, it has a majestic charm and is often less frequented than its larger counterpart, Llyn Idwal, making it a great spot for quiet contemplation or adventurous scrambling routes like the Bochlwyd Horseshoe.
While some lakes may appear inviting, swimming is generally not permitted in designated nature reserves. For example, in Cwm Idwal, swimming is explicitly not allowed as it is a nature reserve. Always check local regulations and signage before considering entering the water.
The area around Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn is rich in history, particularly its slate mining heritage. The Dinorwig Quarry's slate tips are a stark reminder of the region’s past. Llanberis also features two narrow-gauge railways, including the Llanberis Lake Railway, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial and tourism history.
The lakes offer dramatic and extensive views due to the region's mountainous terrain. From Cwm Idwal, you can see Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen. Llyn Llydaw is set amidst dramatic mountain peaks, and from Y Garn Summit, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of multiple lakes including Llyn Ogwen, Llyn Idwal, Llyn Clyd, and Llyn Clyd Bach.
Yes, the mountainous landscape around Llandygai provides excellent opportunities for trail running. You can find various routes, including challenging loops like the Carnedd Dafydd & Carnedd Llewelyn loop or the Y Garn to Glyder Fach trail running loop. More options are available in the Running Trails around Llandygai guide.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the diverse outdoor activities available. The dramatic mountain backdrops, the clear waters of the lakes, and the extensive network of trails for hiking and running are often highlighted. The area's unique blend of natural landscapes and historical significance, such as the slate mining heritage near Llyn Padarn, also adds to its appeal.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available in the wider Llandygai area. Routes like the Llyn Ogwen – Nant Ffrancon Cycle Route offer moderate challenges and scenic views. For more details on routes and their difficulties, refer to the MTB Trails around Llandygai guide.
For challenging hikes and scrambling, the areas around Y Garn Summit and Llyn Bochlwyd are excellent choices. Y Garn involves a challenging ascent with rewarding views, and Llyn Bochlwyd is a starting point for classic scrambling routes like the Bochlwyd Horseshoe, which takes in Tryfan's North and South Ridges and Glyder Fach's Bristly Ridge.


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