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United Kingdom
Wales
South Wales
Ceredigion

Llyn Brianne

The best walks and hikes around Llyn Brianne

4.3

(70)

362

hikers

26

hikes

Hiking around Llyn Brianne offers diverse trails set amidst the rolling hills and river valleys of the Cambrian Mountains. The region is centered around the expansive Llyn Brianne Reservoir, an artificial lake surrounded by the extensive Tywi Forest. Hikers can explore a network of waterside and woodland paths, encountering features such as the Llyn Brianne Dam and cascading waterfalls within the RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve. The landscape provides varied terrain suitable for different hiking experiences.

Best hiking trails around Llyn…

Last updated: April 26, 2026

3.0

(1)

19

hikers

#1.

Llyn Brianne Reservoir loop

23.7km

06:47

550m

550m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Hard

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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4.3

(3)

9

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Adam Suschitzky
December 29, 2025, Fallen Trees

Climb around the fallen trees

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A quick detour off the gravel road up a grassy hill, where you will find a circle of standing stones with a beautiful backdrop!

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It was a truly stunning spot to take in the scenery from this elevated panoramic viewpoint. Highly recommended.

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Andy Bryant
February 4, 2025, Llyn Brianne Dam

A short climb up from the road brings you to the Dam and carpark, there is no access over the Dam itself. But you do get a good view over the spillway and valley below.

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THE TALE OF THE WELSH “ROBIN HOOD” Known as Twm Siôn Cati Twm Siôn Cati is a historically known figure in Welsh folklore. A tale recounted by Meyrick recalls how Twm was asked by a poor man to steal a pitcher for him. They went together to a merchant where Twm started belittling the man's wares. Having told his friend secretly to take the pitcher of his choice, Twm distracted the merchant by telling him there was a hole in one of the pitchers, which the man denied. Twm desired him to put his hand in the pitcher to test it and the man still denied there was a hole. Twm then asked him how, if there was no hole, could he have put his hand inside? By this time his friend had disappeared with his pitcher, undetected. A tale from Prichard's book involves an occasion when Twm is staying in an inn overnight and realises other people are planning to rob him the following day after he sets off. He has a large sum of money with him. The following morning he behaves as though his money is in the pack-saddle of his horse. When the highwayman catches up, Twm drops the saddle in the middle of a pool. The highwayman wades into the pool to fetch it, Twm takes the opportunity to make off with the highwayman's horse. A complication arises because the horse responds to the voice of the highwayman crying "Stop!" Luckily Twm, in terror, happens to shout a word which makes the horse gallop on again, and he is conveyed to safety. Another tale recounts how Twm waylaid a rich squire, who was accompanied by his daughter, Twm was so smitten with her that he returned her jewellery to her and attempted to woo her, against her father's opposition and, initially, her own. One full moon shortly after the robbery, he crept to her window, roused her from sleep, caught her hand at the window and kissed it, refusing to let her go until she promised to marry him. She wouldn't promise so Twm drew his dagger, drew blood on her wrist and threatened to sever her hand unless she assented to marriage forthwith. She agreed to marry him and she kept her hand. Their marriage followed soon after, despite her father's views and the directness of Twm's courtship methods. The girl was supposedly the widow of the sheriff of Carmarthen. Through this marriage Twm is supposed to have gained respectability, eventually becoming a justice of the peace, sitting in judgement on others, a position he held until his death aged 79.

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Largest man made lake in mid wales

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This attractive RSPB site has a circular footpath adjacent to a river with beautiful rock cascades and old mossy trees. It is also home to the Twm Sion Cati's cave. All worth a look off of the bike.

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Tales about him vary on details, but he is usually said to have been born in or very near to Tregaron, in or around 1530, his mother being one Cati Jones of Tregaron. His father was supposed to be Siôn ap Dafydd ap Madog ap Hywel Moetheu of Porth-y-ffin, also near Tregaron. He was an illegitimate son whose mother named him Thomas. The Welsh-language equivalent of Tom is Twm. It was also common practice in rural Wales for children with common names to be nicknamed after their mothers. Thus he became known as Twm Siôn Cati.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of hiking trails can I find around Llyn Brianne?

Llyn Brianne offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy, short loops to more challenging, multi-hour treks. You'll find paths winding through extensive woodlands, along the reservoir's edge, and across rolling hills. The terrain can vary, with some sections being rugged or occasionally boggy, adding to the adventure.

Are there any easy or family-friendly walks in the Llyn Brianne area?

Yes, Llyn Brianne has several easy and family-friendly options. A popular choice is the route to Twm Siôn Cati's Cave within the RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve, which is a short and accessible walk. You can explore this area on the Twm Siôn Cati's Cave – Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve loop from St Paulinus' Chruch, which is just over 3 km long.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions to see while hiking in Llyn Brianne?

The region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. The impressive Llyn Brianne Dam, the tallest in the UK, is a must-see, offering spectacular views and photographic opportunities. Within the RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve, you can discover beautiful cascading waterfalls and the legendary Twm Siôn Cati's Cave. For more information about the reservoir and dam, you can visit Visit Mid Wales.

Are there any circular walks around Llyn Brianne?

Yes, circular walks are very popular here. The Llyn Brianne Reservoir loop is a well-known option, offering panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding countryside. Another moderate circular route is the Llyn Brianne Reservoir loop from Cefn Fannog, which leads through woodland and along the reservoir.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Llyn Brianne?

Llyn Brianne is beautiful year-round, but the best time for hiking is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and trails are less likely to be boggy. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear due to potentially colder and wetter conditions.

Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Llyn Brianne?

Many trails in Llyn Brianne are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or within nature reserves like RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas, to protect wildlife and ensure safety for everyone.

What are the most challenging hikes in Llyn Brianne?

For those seeking a challenge, the region offers several difficult routes. The full Llyn Brianne Reservoir loop is a demanding 23.7 km trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 6 hours to complete. These longer routes often feature rugged terrain and require good fitness.

What do other hikers say about the trails in Llyn Brianne?

The hiking trails in Llyn Brianne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning views of the reservoir and dam, the tranquility of the Tywi Forest, and the diverse landscapes that cater to various skill levels.

Are there opportunities for stargazing in Llyn Brianne?

Yes, Llyn Brianne is an excellent location for stargazing. It has been officially recognized as a Dark Sky Discovery Site since 2019. Its remote location and clear, unobstructed night skies make it an exceptional spot for observing stars and other celestial phenomena.

How many hiking routes are available in the Llyn Brianne area?

There are over 25 hiking routes available in the Llyn Brianne area, catering to various preferences. This includes 7 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes, ensuring options for all experience levels.

Are there any waterfalls to see while hiking?

Yes, within the RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve, hikers can discover beautiful cascading waterfalls. This reserve offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area, including ancient mossy trees and diverse wildlife.

Is there parking available at the trailheads in Llyn Brianne?

Yes, there are numerous viewpoints and parking areas scattered throughout the Llyn Brianne area, making it convenient to access various trailheads. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.

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