Top 20 Lakes in the Cambrian Mountains
Lakes in the Cambrian Mountains are a prominent feature of this Welsh region, characterized by diverse aquatic environments. The area encompasses dramatic glacial tarns, expansive reservoirs, and remote moorland pools. This landscape offers a range of natural features, from high-mountain settings to forest-lined shores. The Cambrian Mountains are known for their varied topography, shaped by glacial activity and human engineering.
Best lakes in the Cambrian Mountains
- The most popular lakes include Cwm Idwal, a lake that offers views to Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen. It is a starting point for mountain climbs and features a circular walk from the visitors centre.
- Another must-see spot is Llyn Llydaw (Brittany Lake), a lake set amidst dramatic mountain peaks. Visitors can expect a natural lake environment in a mountainous setting.
- Visitors also love Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn, a settlement featuring a lake. This location offers both village amenities and lakeside access.
- Cambrian Mountains is known for glacial tarns, large reservoirs, and remote moorland lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with engineered dams to natural high-altitude pools.
- The lakes in the Cambrian Mountains are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 highlights and over 70 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Fan Brycheiniog summit and stone shelter
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Y Garn Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Llanberis Village and Llyn Padarn
Highlight • Settlement
Long before it was a draw to tourists and hikers, Llanberis was a slate mining town. The Dinorwig Quarry's slate tips are a stark reminder of the region’s heritage.
The village is blessed with several good outdoor gear shops and characterful places to eat and drink.
Tip by
Tor y Foel Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Cwm Idwal
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Picws Du summit & view of Llyn y Fan Fach
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Llyn Llydaw (Brittany Lake)
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond)
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Llyn Glaslyn (Glaslyn Lake)
Highlight • Natural Monument
Glaslyn, though smaller, is higher and more atmospheric. Cupped just below Snowdon's mighty east face, it is a spectacular place and one with Arthurian associations. It is said that King Arthur's sword Exalibur was thrown into the water and that, when Arthur died, his body was placed in a boat on its surface before it was carried away to Avalon.
The Miners' Track begins its ascent to Snowdon's summit from Glaslyn's northern shore. There's also a fantastic grade one scramble up the obvious slabby rib of Y Gribin, which begins from the llyn's eastern end and joins the Watkin path between Snowdon and Y Lliwedd.
Tip by
The Punchbowl Lake
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes in the Cambrian Mountains.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Cambrian Mountains
Supporting the National Three Peaks FKT in true Green Runners’ Style
Connect with Nature – Purposeful Adventures in 2024
Adventures with a Purpose – our A-TEAMers’ best routes
Ephemeral Lines – Stunning UK Winter Ridges
The Dragon's Back – running the spine of Wales
Glyndŵr’s Way – hiking in the footsteps of a Welsh hero
Ultra Trail Snowdonia by UTMB – 100 epic miles in Eryri
Snowdonia Way – A dramatic hike through Eryri's mountainous heart
Snowdonia Way Mountain Route – Rise to Eryri's awesome summits
Traws Eryri — Bikepacking Snowdonia from Machynlleth to Conwy
Other adventures in the Cambrian Mountains
Tips from the Community
Y Garn is a fine hill, usually climbed from Ogwen Valley by it's West ridge, or as part of the walk along the Glyders range between Elidir Fawr and the Glyders themselves. There is however another way up, the East Ridge, which is a Grade 2 scramble and starts from Llyn Idwal.
0
0
Cool cave that many people walk past, going on for quite a bit!
0
0
Llyn Idwal is a lake (approximately 800 by 300 metres, or 28 hectares) in Cwm Idwal in the Glyderau Mountains of Snowdonia. On the north-western edge of Llyn Idwal is a small pebble beach, which is occasionally used by visitors for recreation. Swimming is not permitted as it is in a nature reserve.
10
0
It can be windy and cloudy here. There are marks to find a trail in the cloud. Also on the top there is a nice area to hide from wind and rest. If not in the cloud, the view is awesome
0
0
Easy walk, bit rocky at the top, very enjoyable walk
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most dramatic or scenic lakes in the Cambrian Mountains?
For dramatic scenery, consider the iconic twin glacial lakes of Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr, nestled beneath the Carmarthen Fans. Picws Du summit & view of Llyn y Fan Fach offers incredible views of this area. Another stunning location is Llyn Llydaw, a natural lake set amidst dramatic mountain peaks. Llyn Cwm Llwch, tucked beneath Pen y Fan, is also considered one of the most beautiful high-mountain lakes in the Brecon Beacons.
Which lakes are best for solitude and remote hiking?
The Teifi Pools, including the largest, Llyn Teifi, are ideal for those seeking solitude and long moorland hikes in a remote, wild, and quiet area. Reaching Llyn Gynon also requires a tough hike but rewards visitors with a hidden lake and a true wilderness feel.
Are there any lakes in the Cambrian Mountains known for stargazing?
Yes, several lakes are excellent for stargazing. The Teifi Pools area is considered a Dark Skies Discovery site. Llyn Brianne is also recognized as a Dark Sky Discovery Site and is a stargazing hotspot at night. Additionally, the Elan Valley Estate is an International Dark Sky Park, and Usk Reservoir is one of the National Park's top ten sites for stargazing.
What lakes offer good opportunities for cycling?
Llyn Brianne is perfect for cycling loops, offering peaceful forest scenery around its vast reservoir. The Elan Valley also features a series of dramatic Victorian dams and reservoirs, providing scenic drives and gentle lakeside trails suitable for cycling. You can find more cycling routes in the region by checking out the Gravel biking in the Cambrian Mountains guide.
Which lakes are suitable for family-friendly walks?
Usk Reservoir offers easy paths and extensive views, making it great for families and calm walks. Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) is also a popular site for picnics and family visits. For more options, explore the Easy hikes in the Cambrian Mountains guide.
Are there lakes with historical significance or interesting legends?
Llyn y Fan Fach is particularly famous for the Lady of the Lake legend. The Elan Valley lakes are notable for their dramatic Victorian dams, the construction of which had a significant local impact, leading to the creation of villages, railways, and roads, and the flooding of older settlements. Cwm Idwal is also associated with an old Welsh legend.
What lakes are good for fishing?
Llyn Teifi, part of the Teifi Pools, is known for fishing. Nant-y-Moch is a large lake providing an expansive area for wild brown trout, while Dinas Reservoir is regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Both Nant-y-Moch (fly-fishing only) and Dinas are suitable for bank fishing.
Where can I find impressive man-made structures related to lakes?
Llyn Brianne features the tallest dam in the UK, standing at 91 meters. The Elan Valley is renowned for its series of dramatic Victorian dams and reservoirs. Llyn Clywedog is also a man-made reservoir formed by the construction of the Clywedog Dam, with numerous viewing points along its circular drive.
What are some challenging lake walks in the Cambrian Mountains?
The area around Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr offers excellent ridge walks with dramatic scenery. Reaching Llyn Gynon involves a tough hike for those seeking a true wilderness experience. For more challenging routes, consult the Mountain Hikes in the Cambrian Mountains guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Cambrian Mountains?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from dramatic glacial tarns to expansive reservoirs. Many enjoy the opportunities for solitude, especially around the Teifi Pools, and the stunning views from summits like Picws Du overlooking Llyn y Fan Fach. The region's dark skies also make it a favorite for stargazing.
Are there any lakes that are part of a wider protected area or park?
Yes, the Elan Valley Estate, which includes a series of dramatic reservoirs, is an International Dark Sky Park. Llyn Cwm Llwch is located within the Brecon Beacons, part of the wider Cambrian Mountains region. Usk Reservoir is also within the National Park and is a top stargazing site.
Most popular routes in the Cambrian Mountains
Most popular attractions in the Cambrian Mountains
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake in the Cambrian Mountains? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
