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Wales
South Wales

Llanddew

Top 7 Lakes around Llanddew

Best lakes around Llanddew are found in the surrounding Brecon Beacons National Park and Cambrian Mountains, as the village itself is small and lacks major lakes. This region of Powys, Wales, is recognized for its diverse natural water bodies, offering various outdoor activities. Llanddew serves as a convenient base for exploring these notable lakes, which feature historical sites, unique ecosystems, and dramatic mountain scenery. The area provides opportunities for walking routes, cycling, and wildlife observation.

Best lakes around Llanddew

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Last updated: May 2, 2026

Tommy Jones Memorial

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The memorial is a 'bit' misleading by way of location, as it was moved by the National Trust some years ago. It used to be a good few hundred metres …

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Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb

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This gravelly climb is a great alternative to the road if you’re riding larger wheels. The trail itself is fine for road bikes with larger wheels or gravel bikes (I …

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Talybont Reservoir

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The largest reservoir in the Brecons, Talybont reservoir was completed in 1939. It supplies water to Newport, further south.

Seventeen dwellings (including farms) were co-opted during its construction.

Despite its …

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Cwm Llwch Lake

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Very popular local spot. The lake is a great spot for a rest break or a picnic. A beautiful location and a good overnight wild camping spot.

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The largest natural lake in Wales is a perfect spot for fans of the wildlife. You can set out on the lake on a boat, but a permit is required …

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Popular around Llanddew

Hiking around Llanddew

Road Cycling Routes around Llanddew

MTB Trails around Llanddew

Running Trails around Llanddew

Cycling around Llanddew

Gravel biking around Llanddew

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Jenny
February 15, 2024, Llyn Cwm Llwch

Fellow hiking friends have said that this lake has a lot of leeches! 😳

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Talybont Reservoir is a great asset to the local scenery and is easy on the eye. It is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, but it is disappointing that this big water source can't be used for water recreation purposes.

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A fantastic long, slightly downhill gravel stretch high above Talybont Reservoir, this trail delivers both in terms of adrenaline and views! The track is wide and mostly quiet, though the gravel can be loose and a bit chunky in sections, so a gravel bike, sturdy tourer or mountain bike is best.

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Llangasty (St Gastyn's Church). A lovely place to stop on the southern shore of the largest natural lake in south Wales.

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Beautiful place, nice spots to wild camp around it. Also great to stop at for lunch.

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This had always moved me 5yrs of age so so. Sad.

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Great way to get up without tackling the tramway

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Isaac
September 30, 2021, Llyn Cwm Llwch

Sick Place to wildcamp

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular lakes to visit near Llanddew?

Visitors frequently enjoy Talybont Reservoir, known for its excellent trails and atmospheric forest tracks. Another favorite is Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan), the largest natural lake in South Wales, popular for wildlife observation and boating. For dramatic mountain scenery, Cwm Llwch Lake, nestled beneath Pen y Fan, is a highly regarded spot.

Are there family-friendly lakes around Llanddew?

Yes, Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan) is a significant natural monument and a family-friendly location, ideal for wildlife observation and boating (with a permit). Usk Reservoir also offers easy paths suitable for families and dog walkers, with calm waters and scenic surroundings.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?

The lakes around Llanddew offer diverse natural features. You'll find glacial lakes like Cwm Llwch Lake with dramatic mountain backdrops, and large natural lakes such as Llangorse Lake, which is home to rare wildlife like the Two-Toned Reed Beetle. Reservoirs like Talybont Reservoir are surrounded by extensive forest tracks, while Usk Reservoir features a distinctive pink-sandstone shoreline.

Are there historical or cultural sites near the lakes?

Yes, Llangorse Lake is notable for its ancient crannog, a man-made island dwelling with historical significance. Near Cwm Llwch Lake, you can find the Tommy Jones Memorial, an obelisk marking a somber historical event from 1900. The Elan Valley Lakes are also characterized by dramatic Victorian dams, which are engineering marvels.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Llanddew?

The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling on easy paths around Usk Reservoir, or explore the extensive trails and forest tracks surrounding Talybont Reservoir. For more challenging adventures, there are numerous hiking routes, including those leading to Llyn Cwm Llwch and the dramatic ridge walks around Llyn y Fan Fach and Fawr. Boating is also possible on Llangorse Lake with a permit. For specific routes, explore the MTB Trails around Llanddew, Cycling around Llanddew, and Gravel biking around Llanddew guides.

Are there good hiking trails near these lakes?

Absolutely. Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. Cwm Llwch Lake is a popular destination for hikers, especially those ascending Pen y Fan. The Teifi Pools in the Cambrian Mountains provide long moorland hikes in a wild setting. You can also find excellent trails around Talybont Reservoir. For detailed routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Llanddew guide, which includes routes suitable for hiking.

Which lakes are best for stargazing?

Usk Reservoir and Llyn Brianne are both designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites, making them excellent locations for stargazing. Their remote settings and clear skies provide optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Llanddew?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic mountain scenery of Cwm Llwch Lake to the tranquil forest surroundings of Talybont Reservoir. The opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation are highly valued, as are the unique historical elements like the crannog at Llangorse Lake. The area's peaceful atmosphere and stunning views are frequently highlighted.

Are there any lakes suitable for cycling?

Yes, Usk Reservoir offers easy paths suitable for cycling. Llyn Brianne is perfect for cycling loops through serene forest landscapes. The Elan Valley Lakes also provide opportunities for cycling along scenic drives and lakeside trails. For specific cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Llanddew and Gravel biking around Llanddew guides.

Which lakes offer a sense of solitude or are less crowded?

For those seeking solitude, the Teifi Pools in the Cambrian Mountains are a scattering of remote and wild lakes on a plateau, providing a quiet and secluded experience. Llyn Brianne also offers peaceful forest scenery, making it a good choice for a serene escape.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Llanddew?

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and boating. Autumn provides stunning foliage, especially in forested areas around reservoirs like Talybont Reservoir and Llyn Brianne. Winter can offer dramatic, quiet landscapes, though some higher trails might be more challenging due to conditions.

Are there any lakes with unique folklore or mythology?

Yes, Llyn y Fan Fach is particularly steeped in folklore, known for the legend of the Lady of the Lake. This adds a unique cultural dimension to the dramatic scenery and ridge walks in the area, appealing to those interested in Welsh mythology.

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

PembrokeshireYstradfellteMaescarLlangattockLlanwrtyd WellsCrayLlangynidrTalybont-On-UskLlanfrynachGlyn TarellCrickhowellBreconTrevethinPen TranchCeredigionAbersychanPontprennauNew InnPentwynCyncoedCymer And GlyncorrwgRadyr and MorganstownGwynfi And CroeserwWhitchurchBedwas Trethomas & MachenCarmarthenshirePontarddulaisMawrLlanfihangel Cwmdu With Bwlch And CathedineLlangorsTawe-UchafLlywelOld St MellonsPenylanCathaysRhiwbinaRoathHeathLlandaff NorthLlanishenLlanrhidian HigherSwanseaLisvaneRudryPonthirRhondda Cynon TafRisca WestYstradgynlaisGowertonGlynneathTalgarthTrallongPenllergaerPontlliw And TircoedGorseinonLlwchwrGrovesend And WaungronPentyrchCoedffrancLlantarnamCwmbran CentralAbercarnHenllysThe Vale Of GrwyneyAber ValleyCardiffRisca EastMonmouthshirePenyrheol Trecenydd & EnerglynBlaengwrachUpper KillayIlstonPennardMumblesTongwynlaisCaerphillyOnllwynSkettyKillayResolvenFelin-FachPelennaLlangyfelachCockettPenderryNewbridgeCrumlinLlanyrafonFairwaterUpper CwmbranLlanbradachYnysdduBlaenavonCrosskeysVanLlanrhidian LowerLlangennith, Llanmadoc And CheritonYscirHonddu IsafDyffryn ClydachDunvantBrynPort TalbotAberavonTai-BachMargamSandfields EastMargam MoorsPontnewyddPantegCroesyceiliogPontymoileLandoreBirchgroveBon-Y-MaenClydachLlansamletMorristonMynyddbachVale of GlamorganMerthyr TydfilBronllys

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