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Cwm Idwal

Highlight • Lake

Cwm Idwal

Hiking

5.0

(348)

Running

5.0

(2)

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Gwarchodfa Natur Genedlaethol Cwm Idwal

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    Tips

    February 25, 2022

    Hiking

    A beautiful lake with stunning views to Tryfan and Pen Yr Ole Wen. There is a circular walk from the visitors centre which takes you around the lake or you can use this as a starting point for the mountains above.

    July 1, 2025

    Hiking

    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.
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    January 12, 2018

    Hiking

    The name of the small lake Llyn Idwal refers to an old Welsh legend. In the 12th century, Owain, Prince of Gwynedd, gave his only son Idwal into the care of his retainer Nefydd Hardd. Nefydd was commissioned to look after his master's son, but Nefydd's son Dunawd was jealous of the talented Idwal. So he pushed Idwal into this lake and he drowned. Owain banished Nefydd and his son from the kingdom and named the lake in mourning for his only son.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Cwm Idwal

    4.8

    (147)

    914

    hikers

    #1.

    Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

    4.77km

    01:32

    200m

    200m

    Embark on the Llyn Idwal loop from Ogwen Cottage, an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete, with an elevation gain of 658 feet (201 metres). You will experience a dramatic glacial landscape with rugged, rocky terrain and uneven paths. The trail offers spectacular views of the crystal-clear Llyn Idwal, nestled within Cwm Idwal, and is framed by towering peaks like Tryfan and Glyder Fawr. Keep an eye out for the prominent Idwal Slabs, popular with rock climbers, and cascading streams along the way.

    Starting from Ogwen Cottage, this route is generally accessible for most fitness levels, providing a mountain experience without excessive physical effort. However, some sections are moderately strenuous with steep, rough mountain paths, especially as you gain height towards the southern end of the lake. Due to the stony and sometimes boggy ground, sturdy hiking boots are essential for sure-footedness, particularly after rain. The path is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

    This area is home to Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve, Wales' first, renowned for its impressive ice-sculpted landscape and unique plant life. The crater-like Cwm Idwal is a result of significant geological activity, making it one of the best places to observe glacial aftermath in the National Park; Charles Darwin even conducted scientific work here. You can also see iconic features like the

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    Easy

    Embark on the Y Garn to Glyder Fach loop for a challenging hike through Snowdonia National Park's dramatic terrain. This moderate route covers 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2785 feet (849 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 21 minutes to complete. You will navigate rocky paths, scree sections, and bouldery ascents, experiencing the

    Moderate

    Embark on an easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike around Llyn Idwal, a crystal-clear lake nestled within the dramatic glacial landscape of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. This loop, which you can complete in about 1 hour and 11 minutes with an elevation gain of 312 feet (95 metres), offers breathtaking views of ice-sculpted Cwm Idwal and towering peaks like Tryfan. While the path is generally stony and clear, be prepared for sections that can be rugged, rocky, or slippery, especially as you pass under Devil's Kitchen, an area known for its huge boulders.

    Starting from Ogwen Cottage, the trail is easily accessible, making it suitable for most skill levels. The cottage itself provides convenient amenities, including a car park, information, and refreshments, ensuring a smooth start and finish to your adventure. Although the loop itself avoids significant climbing, some sections leading up to the lake involve steeper, rough mountain paths, so wear appropriate footwear and be ready for varied terrain.

    This trail offers a unique opportunity to experience a dramatic mountainous environment without excessive physical effort. Cwm Idwal holds the distinction of being Wales' oldest National Nature Reserve, showcasing a unique ice-sculpted valley and world-famous rock formations like the Idwal Slabs. The combination of the serene Llyn Idwal and the imposing surrounding peaks makes this a distinctive and memorable walk within the national park.

    Easy

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    Elevation 370 m

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    Location: Llandygai, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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