Top 10 Lakes around Cyffylliog
Best lakes around Cyffylliog are found in the scenic uplands of Denbighshire, Wales, offering a range of outdoor activities. This region, nestled between Snowdonia and Conwy, is characterized by its natural beauty and man-made reservoirs that serve as focal points for recreation. The landscape features forests, moorland, and water bodies, providing diverse environments for exploration. Visitors can experience the fresh Welsh air and upland scenery that define this part of North Wales.
Best lakes around Cyffylliog
- The most popular lakes is Llyn Brenig, a viewpoint that offers glorious views on the edge of the lake. This large, man-made reservoir was constructed between 1973 and 1976 to maintain water flow to the River Dee.
- Another must-see spot is Llyn Brenig — East Shore Gravel Track, a trail that flanks the eastern shore of Llyn Brenig. This long, winding doubletrack gravel road provides views of the lake and opportunities to observe wildlife.
- Visitors also love Alwen Dam, a man-made monument that is a magnificent feat of engineering. Completed in 1920, this ornate stone dam was built to provide drinking water for Liverpool and the Wirral.
- Cyffylliog is known for its man-made reservoirs and impressive dams. These water bodies offer a variety of landscapes and historical engineering to see and explore.
- The lakes around Cyffylliog are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 60 upvotes and 5 photos, the komoot community highlights the appeal of these locations.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Llyn Brenig
Highlight • Viewpoint
The dam is fairly recent; it was begun in 1973 and finished in 1976. It maintains the flow of water to the River Dee, not to be confused with the river of the same name in Aberdeenshire.
The water supplied by this reservoir feeds into North-East Wales and North-West England, including the Liverpool area.
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Llyn Brenig — East Shore Gravel Track
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
It's a little rough in places so best on a gravel bike, sturdy hybrid or mountain bike rather than a pure road bike.
Enjoy the views as you meander around the little inlets and see what wildlife you can see across the water.
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Alwen Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Cilcain Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Originally constructed to supply water to the local area, it's now a tranquil location surrounded by woodland and rolling hills.
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Bridleway from Clwydian Range to Garth Reservoir and Cilcain
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
Though it was not a tough or technical ride, it did take me into territory I had never visited before and was a lovely antidote to the 'fleshpots' of Gwydir Forest or Coed-y-Brenin. Some lovely gentle singletrack, beautiful views and I didn't see another rider for the whole trip - although tbh I did set off at 08.30 on a Wednesday!!
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Llyn Brenig is a reservoir located on Denbigh Moors in North Wales. The artificial lake, which was constructed between 1973 and 1976, was created by building an embankment dam across the Afon Brenig valley. It lies at 1,200 ft (370 m) above sea level on the border between the counties of Conwy and Denbighshire. It is used to manage the flow in the River Dee as part of the River Dee regulation system.
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Cilcain Reservoir is a man-made water body nestled in the Clwydian Range of North Wales. Originally constructed to supply water to the local area, it's now a tranquil location surrounded by woodland and rolling hills.
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The grand, ornate stone dam of Alwen Reservoir couldn't be more of a contrast to the neighbouring Llyn Brenig Dam. It's well worth taking a minute or two to take in this magnificent feat of engineering, that was completed in 1920. The reservoir here was built to provide drinking water for Liverpool and the Wirral.
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A long and winding doubletrack gravel road that flanks the eastern shore of Llyn Brenig. It's a little rough in places so best on a gravel bike, sturdy hybrid or mountain bike rather than a pure road bike. Enjoy the views as you meander around the little inlets and see what wildlife you can see across the water.
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A pleasant place for a picnic near the dam at the end of the Alwen reservoir.
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This is a great little singletrack descent flowing down from the Clwydian Range to the reservoir at Garth. The trail carries along to Cilcain at an easy downhill pace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes to explore near Cyffylliog?
The primary destination is Llyn Brenig, a large man-made reservoir offering diverse activities and stunning views. Other notable sites include Alwen Dam, an impressive feat of engineering, and the tranquil Cilcain Reservoir.
What makes Llyn Brenig a popular destination?
Llyn Brenig is highly regarded for its wide range of outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, paddle sports, and world-class fly-fishing. It's also a haven for wildlife, particularly known for its nesting ospreys, and features a visitor centre with amenities.
What outdoor activities can I do at Llyn Brenig?
At Llyn Brenig, you can enjoy walking and cycling on dedicated trails, paddle sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, open water swimming, and fly-fishing for trout. Recreational motorboat hire is also available for families. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Cyffylliog guide.
Are there good walking and cycling trails around the lakes?
Yes, the area offers various trails. Llyn Brenig — East Shore Gravel Track is a popular option for cycling and walking with lake views. You can find more running and MTB trails in the Running Trails around Cyffylliog and MTB Trails around Cyffylliog guides.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes, especially Llyn Brenig, are rich in wildlife. You might spot ospreys nesting annually, along with pine martens, red squirrels, and sand martins. Dedicated viewing points are available for observing ospreys.
Are there family-friendly activities or facilities at the lakes?
Yes, Llyn Brenig is very family-friendly. It offers easy walking and cycling trails, recreational motorboat hire, and a visitor centre with a café and gift shop. The tranquil setting of Cilcain Reservoir is also suitable for families.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Llyn Brenig features Bronze Age and Stone Age archaeological sites, which can be explored via dedicated trails. Additionally, the Alwen Dam, completed in 1920, is a significant historical engineering marvel.
What facilities are available for visitors at Llyn Brenig?
The Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre provides a café, gift shop, and a fishing shop. You can also find information on activities and trails there. Bike hire and fishing permits are available on-site.
When is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Cyffylliog?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the summer months offer the widest range of activities, including paddle sports and open water swimming. Spring and autumn are excellent for walking and wildlife spotting, particularly for ospreys. Always check local conditions before visiting, especially during winter.
Are the trails around the lakes dog-friendly?
Many trails around the lakes, including those at Llyn Brenig, are suitable for dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, and to check specific site regulations before your visit.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Cyffylliog?
Yes, Llyn Brenig has an international reputation for its world-class fly-fishing, particularly for trout. Fishing permits and tackle are available on-site at the visitor centre.
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