Llyn Cau has an ambience all of its own. This is a beautiful high mountain pool watched over by the frowning cliffs of Craig Cwm Amarch and Penygadair, Cadair Idris' main summit.

Like Snowdon's Glaslyn, legend tells of a terrifying serpent, the Afanc, in the depths of the water. It's easy to imagine serpents, dragons and giants in a landscape such as this, which is probably why Cadair Idris is so rich in myths and legends.

Tom

April 29, 2019

Hiking

This is the lake surrounded by the Cadair Idris range. Its spectacular colour is only really appreciated from way above on the ridge, however this is a good stop for a quick break or even a swim if you are brave enough.

Kàyto Adventure

June 15, 2021

Hiking

Legend of Cadair Idris
Local folklore describes Idris as a giant who lived on this magnificent mountain; Cadair Idris is Welsh for “Idris's chair”.

The large boulders on the lower slopes are supposed to be the debris from stone throwing battles between Idris and the other giants.

It is said that if you are lucky enough to survive a night on the summit, the ordeal will either drive you mad or turn you into a poet.

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Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

10.5km

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850m

The Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path offers a challenging hike, covering 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2776 feet (846 metres). You can expect…

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Hard

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#2.

Minffordd Path to Llyn Cau

6.67km

02:47

430m

Hike the Minffordd Path to Llyn Cau, a 4.1-mile route with 1399 feet of elevation gain, offering stunning glacial lake views in Cadair Idris

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#3.

Nant Cader Footbridge – View of Llyn y Gader loop from Cader Idris National Nature Reserve

10.2km

05:14

850m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Elevation 470 m

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Monday 4 May

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Location: Llanfihangel-Y-Pennant, Gwynedd, North Wales, Wales, United Kingdom

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View of Cadair Idris

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Llyn Cau

#1.

Cadair Idris loop on the Minffordd path — Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

#2.

Minffordd Path to Llyn Cau

#3.

Nant Cader Footbridge – View of Llyn y Gader loop from Cader Idris National Nature Reserve

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