Best lakes around Ysgubor-Y-Coed are found in a small community in northern Ceredigion, Wales, near the River Dyfi and the Cambrian Mountains. This area provides access to a variety of lakes, including those within the Cambrian Mountains and on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. The region offers natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. Ysgubor-Y-Coed serves as a base for exploring these natural water features.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
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Third highest summit in the Pumlumon range, Pen Pumlumon Llygad-bychan is perhaps most notable for its proximity to the source of the River Wye. To the north of the summit is the lovely pool of Llyn Llygad Rheidiol, while Pumlumon's principal summit is just a short walk along the Cambrian Way to the northeast. While the summit itself is not particularly distinguished and is known to be on the boggy side, it does offer lovely views across the Cambrian Mountains of Mid Wales.
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The Bearded Lake or Llyn Barfog is a pretty mountain lake below Mynydd y Llyn. It's fringed with water lilies and other plants which may explain its name. Legend has it that once a monster lived here, terrorising the local people. King Arthur came to rid the area of the menace, lassoing the monster with magical chains and dragging it out of the lake with his horse Llamrai. You can even see the horse’s footprint in a nearby rockface - Carn March Arthur.
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Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan (727m, a Hewitt & Nuttall) is the third highest summit on the Plynlimon massif. The summit is boggy and marked by a few stones. The source of the River Wye, is just South of the summit. The picturesque glacial lake of Llyn Llygad Rheidiol lies to the North.
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Fast and flowing running almost along side the red trail back to the lake. Great to add on to the end as its a short climb back to the top for it.
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A great section running down to the lake and if you time it right you will be swooping down along with the kites for feeding time.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake), known for its picturesque setting and folklore. Another favorite is Llyn Llygad Rheidol, a natural monument nestled in rugged scenery. The area around Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit is also popular, offering stunning views and proximity to Llyn Llygad Rheidiol.
Yes, Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake) is steeped in local legend. It's said that a monster once terrorized the area, which King Arthur and his horse, Llamrai, eventually subdued. You can even see a footprint, known as Carn March Arthur, in a nearby rockface, supposedly left by Arthur's horse.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Bearded Lake and Happy Valley Circular'. There are also dedicated running trails and mountain biking routes, such as the 'Mach 3 MTB loop'. For more details, check out the hiking guide, running guide, and MTB trails guide for Ysgubor-Y-Coed.
Absolutely. For instance, you can hike the 'Bearded Lake and Happy Valley Circular', a moderate 6.5 km route. Another option is the 'View of Dyfi Estuary – Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake) loop from Penhelyg', which is a longer, moderate 13.4 km trail. You can find more hiking options in the hiking guide for Ysgubor-Y-Coed.
Yes, the area provides excellent mountain biking. Highlights like High as a Kite Red Trail and Barcud Bach Blue Trail offer thrilling descents and views. You can also explore longer routes like the 'Mach 3 MTB loop' or 'Llyfnant forest and Nant-Y-Moch reservoir loop'. Discover more in the MTB Trails guide around Ysgubor-Y-Coed.
While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't always listed, many of the easier hiking routes, such as the 'Cwm Llinos – Machynlleth loop from Machynlleth' (6.3 km, easy), can be suitable for families. The general natural beauty and open spaces around lakes like Llyn Barfog also offer pleasant, less strenuous walking opportunities.
Generally, the outdoor areas and trails around the lakes in Ysgubor-Y-Coed are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves, and to follow the Countryside Code. Always check for specific signage at individual locations.
The best time to visit is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer offers longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, though conditions can become wetter.
The lakes are set amidst diverse natural features. For example, Llyn Barfog is fringed with water lilies and other plants. Llyn Llygad Rheidol is nestled in rugged scenery, with the Nant y Llyn stream flowing from it. The area also offers views across the Cambrian Mountains, especially from spots like Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit.
Given the variable Welsh weather, it's advisable to wear layers, waterproof outer shell, and sturdy, waterproof walking boots. Even in summer, conditions can change quickly. Bringing a hat, gloves, and sun protection is also recommended, depending on the season.
While not extensively detailed in public information, the community of Ysgubor-Y-Coed is directly associated with smaller, less frequented lakes such as Llyn Conach, Llyn Dwfn, and Llyn Penrhaeadr. These offer a more secluded experience for those looking to explore off the main paths.


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