Top 7 Lakes around Trefeglwys
Best lakes around Trefeglwys, a village in Powys, Wales, offer access to diverse aquatic environments. The region is characterized by its natural landscapes, including both natural and man-made lakes. These bodies of water serve various purposes, from flood regulation to wildlife habitats and recreational areas. The area provides opportunities for exploring the Welsh countryside and its hydrological features.
Best lakes around Trefeglwys
- The most popular lakes is Llyn Llygad Rheidol, a natural_monument that is a picturesque lake nestled in rugged scenery to the north of Pumlumon. The Nant y Llyn stream flows from this naturally formed lake, which has been subsequently dammed.
- Another must-see spot is Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit, a lake highlight that is the third highest summit in the Pumlumon range and is notable for its proximity to the source of the River Wye. To its north lies the pool of Llyn Llygad Rheidol, offering views across the Cambrian Mountains.
- Visitors also love Clywedog Dam, an impressive man-made structure built primarily to regulate the flow of water in the River Severn. It is Britain's tallest concrete dam, standing 72 meters high and 230 meters wide, with two marked hiking trails around the reservoir.
- Trefeglwys is known for natural lakes, reservoirs, and leisure park lakes. These include high mountain lakes and significant man-made structures, providing a variety of aquatic experiences.
- The lakes around Trefeglwys are appreciated by the komoot community, with 13 upvotes and 55 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Clywedog Dam
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Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit
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Llyn Llygad Rheidol
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Llyn Clywedog Reservoir and Dam
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Amusing comparison but the lake holds the equivalent of 264 billion glasses of water or 550 million baths.
The area around the lake is a well kept habitat for many birds and animals including recent visits from ospreys. The lake is well stocked with trout and a popular fishing destination.
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Llyn Mawr
Highlight • Natural Monument
Llyn Mawr is one of three lakes within a Site of Special Scientific Interest, situated high on the moorland plateau above the Carno Valley. At this spot you'll find a small boardwalk where you can enjoy close-up views of the lake.
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Built primarily to regulate the flow of water in the River Severn, the Clywedog Dam is an impressive sight. It's the tallest concrete dam in Britain, at 236 feet (72 m) high, while it's also 750 feet (230 m) wide. There are two marked hiking trails on the reservoir.
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The centerpiece of the Llyn Mawr Nature Reserve is the upland lake known as Llyn Mawr, which means 'big lake' in Welsh. It supports a diverse array of aquatic plants including Bogbean, Yellow Water-lily and the rare Quillwort, found only in Montgomeryshire. Llyn Mawr is one of three lakes within a Site of Special Scientific Interest, situated high on the moorland plateau above the Carno Valley. At this spot you'll find a small boardwalk where you can enjoy close-up views of the lake.
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Llyn Clywedog was the Tallest in the British Isle built purposely to control the level of water to help prevent any future flooding from the source of the River Seven. By Building this absolutely incredible huge 6 mile long dam, one that was the tallest in the British isles, which is amazingly huge in actual size all around! This mammoth body of water is solely to take the huge pressure off the constant mass of floods which would fill up and submerge the surrounding valleys! At the foot of the dam there is a remains of a old lead mine! All structures you can see standing still today. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
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Nice climb up Pumlumon Fawr from this side.
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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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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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Llyn Clywedog is a man made reservoir built between 1965 and 1967 to help regulate the flow of water in the Severn. It's also used to reduce the risk of flooding up and downstream. Amusing comparison but the lake holds the equivalent of 264 billion glasses of water or 550 million baths. The area around the lake is a well kept habitat for many birds and animals including recent visits from ospreys. The lake is well stocked with trout and a popular fishing destination.
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Stunning view across the lake, sometimes you see fisherman
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking and hiking near Trefeglwys?
For walking and hiking, Clywedog Dam and Llyn Clywedog Reservoir and Dam offer two marked hiking trails around the reservoir. Llyn Llygad Rheidol, nestled in rugged scenery north of Pumlumon, is also excellent for experiencing dramatic mountain views and challenging walks. For a more remote experience, Glaslyn Lake has an audio trail, though paths can be wet and muddy.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities around Trefeglwys?
Yes, Clywedog Dam and Llyn Clywedog Reservoir and Dam are considered family-friendly, offering marked hiking trails. Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park Lake is also ideal for families, providing activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and even archery and axe throwing, with equipment hire available. You can find more details at Visit Mid Wales.
What kind of water sports can I do on the lakes near Trefeglwys?
Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park Lake is specifically designed for water sports, offering stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and wild water swimming. Equipment hire, including 'Monster board' options, is available. Llyn Clywedog also offers sailing through the Clywedog Sailing Club.
Where can I go fishing near Trefeglwys?
Llyn Clywedog is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, as it is well-stocked with trout. It's known for its healthy fish population, making it a good spot for anglers.
What natural features or wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The area around Llyn Clywedog is a thriving habitat for various birds and animals, including ospreys. Glaslyn Lake, managed by the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, is a significant nature reserve with expansive heather moorland and boggy areas, offering opportunities for wildlife observation. Between June and August, you can see cottongrass and purple heather, and sometimes quillwort washed ashore.
Are there any significant viewpoints around the lakes?
Yes, Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit offers lovely views across the Cambrian Mountains of Mid Wales, with Llyn Llygad Rheidol to its north. Clywedog Dam and Llyn Clywedog Reservoir and Dam also provide stunning views across the lake. Glaslyn Lake and Viewpoint is another high mountain lake offering spectacular panoramic views.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Trefeglwys?
For Glaslyn Lake, the period between June and August is particularly vibrant, when cottongrass turns the landscape white, followed by the purple bloom of heather. Generally, spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the lakes.
Are there any cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, there are several cycling routes in the wider Trefeglwys area. For example, you can find routes like the 'River Wye – Dylife Gorge Viewpoint loop' or the 'Llanidloes – Llanidloes Castle loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Trefeglwys guide.
What are the options for mountain biking near Trefeglwys?
Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as the 'Hafren Forest circuit' and various routes at Caersws DH Bike Park, including 'Helfare Highway' and 'Scorcher!'. More details are available in the MTB Trails around Trefeglwys guide.
What is the significance of Llyn Clywedog and its dam?
Clywedog Dam is Britain's tallest concrete dam, standing 236 feet (72 meters) high and 750 feet (230 meters) wide. It was constructed between 1965 and 1967 primarily to regulate the flow of the River Severn and mitigate flood risks downstream. The reservoir holds the equivalent of 264 billion glasses of water.
Can I find food and drink options near the lakes?
Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park features Arthur's, an on-site restaurant and bar, perfect for unwinding after a day of activities. For other lakes, you might need to visit nearby villages like Trefeglwys or Llanidloes for cafes, pubs, and accommodation.
What makes Glaslyn Lake unique?
Glaslyn Lake is the largest nature reserve managed by the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, forming an integral part of the Cambrian Mountains. It's an upland lake set amidst expansive heather moorland and boggy areas, known for its unique plant, quillwort, and vibrant seasonal flora. Motorized water sports and swimming are prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem.
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