Best lakes around Waunfawr are situated in a region characterized by its mountainous terrain and historical slate mining heritage. The area is known for its diverse natural landscapes, including numerous lakes nestled within valleys and cwm. These bodies of water offer opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. Waunfawr serves as a gateway to the broader Snowdonia region, providing access to both tranquil waters and challenging mountain environments.
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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The Waunfawr region is known for its diverse lake environments, including glacial lakes, mountain tarns, and valley lakes. These bodies of water are nestled within mountainous terrain and cwm, offering a variety of scenic experiences.
Yes, there are several options for easy walks. For instance, a circular walk is available around Cwm Idwal starting from the visitors center. Additionally, the area around Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn offers accessible trails. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Waunfawr guide.
Walking around Llyn Padarn can vary in duration depending on the specific route taken. There are several hikes that start from Llanberis, which is located directly on the lake, including routes that circle parts of the lake. For example, an easy loop like the 'Quarrymen's Hospital – National Slate Museum loop' is around 6.5 km, taking a couple of hours.
Absolutely. Cwm Idwal offers a family-friendly circular walk from its visitors center. Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn is also a great family destination, with easy walks and attractions like the Llanberis Lake Railway. Many of the routes listed in the Easy hikes around Waunfawr guide are suitable for families.
The region has a rich slate mining heritage. Llanberis Village, situated on Llyn Padarn, was once a slate mining town, and the Dinorwig Quarry's slate tips are a stark reminder of this history. The village also has two narrow-gauge railways, including the Llanberis Lake Railway which goes around Llyn Padarn.
While many lakes are beautiful, swimming is not permitted in all of them, especially those within nature reserves. For example, swimming is not allowed in Llyn Idwal as it is a nature reserve. Always check local regulations before attempting to swim in any lake.
Beyond lake walks, the area offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from moderate to challenging, as detailed in the Hiking around Waunfawr guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like those mentioned in the MTB Trails around Waunfawr guide.
Yes, the region is full of scenic viewpoints. Cwm Idwal offers stunning views of Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen. From Y Garn Summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views down into Cwm Idwal, Llyn Ogwen, Llyn Idwal, and Llyn Clyd. Llyn Llydaw is also noted for its dramatic mountain peak backdrop, perfect for photography.
Llyn Bochlwyd, while less famous than Llyn Idwal, possesses its own majestic charm. Nestled beneath Glyder Fach's mighty main cliff and Tryfan's west face, it offers unique views and is a starting point for classic scrambling routes like the Bochlwyd Horseshoe.
Visitors frequently appreciate the dramatic mountain scenery and the opportunities for both tranquil walks and challenging hikes. The views of peaks like Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen from lakes like Cwm Idwal are highly praised, as are the photographic opportunities at places like Llyn Llydaw. The region's natural beauty and the sense of connection with nature are often highlighted.
Yes, circular walks are a popular way to experience the lakes. A notable example is the circular walk around Cwm Idwal, which starts from the visitors center. Many routes around Llyn Padarn also offer circular options, allowing you to explore the lake and its surroundings.


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