Best lakes around Ystradfellte are primarily found within the Brecon Beacons National Park, an area known for its natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. While Ystradfellte itself is famous for its waterfalls, the surrounding region features significant bodies of water like the Ystradfellte Reservoir. This freshwater reservoir, situated on the Afon Dringarth, offers a peaceful setting for walks amidst rolling hills. The area also encompasses glacial lakes and tarns, providing diverse natural features for exploration.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
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The views down onto Llyn Y Fawr from here is pretty spectacular. This is one of the nicest places in the Brecon Beacons to walk along. Once you have put in the effort to get here, the ridge has a good footpath, there's a nice walled shelter and the views down towards the lake is pretty awesome on a good day.
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Ahhhh Llyn Y Fan Fawr, this glaciated lake is about the nicest place you can be on a hot summers day or even a cold winter's morning. It has been central to my working life in the hills for nearly forty years. It is just so perfectly locacted and makes for a good check point with groups, a rest spot, a camping spot and a perfect wild swimming spot on a hot day. Don't listen to the naysayers, this has been an iconic wild swimming spot for eons. Apart from that it will be a tad cold, it is just about one of the best swim spots in the Brecon Beacons.
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A quieter route that leads to the lake. Beautiful and challenging. ideal for all weathers.
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Fan Brycheiniog is the highest peak at a height of 802.5 metres in the Black Mountain region of the Brecon Beacons National Park in southern Wales. There is a trig point at the peak and on the edge of the escarpment, and nearby, a stone shelter with an inner seat.
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Fan Brycheiniog is the highest peak at a height of 802.5 metres in the Black Mountain region of the Brecon Beacons National Park in southern Wales. There is a trig point at the peak and on the edge of the escarpment, and nearby, a stone shelter with an inner seat.
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Llyn y Fan Fawr is a natural lake in the county of Powys, Wales. It lies at the foot of Fan Brycheiniog, the highest peak of the Black Mountain range within the Brecon Beacons National Park. Created as a result of glacial action, it is one of the largest glacial lakes in southern Wales. The lake is roughly rectangular in shape with its long axis oriented roughly north–south.
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Picws Du is the second highest peak of the Carmarthen Fans in the Carmarthenshire section of the Black Mountain in the west of the Brecon Beacons National Park in south Wales.Picws Du is formed from the sandstones and mudstones of the Brownstones Formation of the Old Red Sandstone laid down during the Devonian period. Its summit and southern slopes are formed from the hard-wearing sandstones of the overlying Plateau Beds Formation which are of upper/late Devonian age.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the stunning glacial lake of Llyn y Fan Fach, known for its beautiful setting below the Black Mountain escarpment and local folklore. Another favorite is Llyn y Fan Fawr, a natural lake at the foot of Fan Brycheiniog, popular for rest and wild swimming. For panoramic views of multiple lakes and sculpted valleys, the Fan Brycheiniog summit and stone shelter offers incredible vistas.
Yes, Llyn y Fan Fawr is a well-known and iconic spot for wild swimming, especially on a warm day. It's considered one of the best swim spots in the Brecon Beacons, though be prepared for cold water.
Beyond the lakes, the region is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including the 'Waterfall Country' with spectacular waterfalls along the Mellte and Hepste rivers. You'll also encounter impressive glacial cirques, steep escarpments, and rolling hills, particularly around the Black Mountain range.
Yes, the area holds historical significance. Near the lakes, you can find the Tommy Jones Memorial, an obelisk marking a tragic event from 1900. Additionally, Llyn y Fan Fach is steeped in local folklore, known for the legend of 'the Lady of the Lake'.
The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. You can explore numerous trails, including the famous Waterfall Country walks. For detailed routes, check out the hiking guide for Ystradfellte and the cycling guide for Ystradfellte.
Absolutely. Many routes incorporate the lakes, such as those that take you along the ridge of the Carmarthen Fans, offering views of Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr. The ascent to Fan Brycheiniog summit also provides a rewarding hike with spectacular lake views. You can find more options in the hiking guide for Ystradfellte.
The Ystradfellte Reservoir is a significant freshwater body within the Fforest Fawr upland area of the Brecon Beacons National Park. It offers a peaceful setting for leisurely walks and contemplation amidst picturesque scenery. Its serene atmosphere makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet escape and connection with nature. You can learn more about it on Wikipedia.
While some trails can be challenging, there are options for families. The walk to Llyn y Fan Fach from its car park is relatively short, though it involves an uphill section. Always check route difficulty and terrain to ensure it's suitable for all family members.
Many trails in the Brecon Beacons National Park are dog-friendly, but it's essential to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always follow the Countryside Code, keep dogs on leads where required, and clean up after them.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, the peaceful and serene atmosphere, and the dramatic, sculpted landscapes. The opportunity for ridge walking with incredible views, the folklore surrounding Llyn y Fan Fach, and the wild swimming at Llyn y Fan Fawr are frequently highlighted as favorite experiences.
The lakes and surrounding areas are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer temperatures, ideal for hiking and wild swimming. Autumn brings stunning colors to the landscape, while winter can provide dramatic, snow-dusted scenery, though conditions can be more challenging. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.


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