The best walks and hikes around Llanwddyn
4.4
(335)
2,791
hikers
31
hikes
Hiking around Llanwddyn explores the area surrounding the Lake Vyrnwy reservoir, situated on the edge of Snowdonia National Park. The terrain is characterized by extensive forests, lakeside paths, and routes into the Berwyn Mountains. Many trails feature views of the lake, its stone dam, and the surrounding hills. The region also includes rocky streams, heather moorland, and crags.
Best hiking trails around Llanwddyn
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, a 7.1 miles (11.4…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.7
(21)
133
hikers
6.22km
01:53
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(12)
90
hikers
27.3km
07:25
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(8)
217
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
4.93km
01:25
130m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
21
hikers
6.92km
01:55
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.
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The RSPB centre keeps a board of all the recent birds sighted in the area.
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This is a safe little pebble beach for your dog to go and have a swim.
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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
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There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building
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Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to park for hikes around Lake Vyrnwy?
There are several car parks located around Lake Vyrnwy, particularly near the dam, the visitor centre, and at the start of popular waymarked trails. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons and weekends as spaces can fill up quickly. Some more remote trailheads may have limited roadside parking.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, the area is very accommodating for families. There are numerous gentle paths, especially around the lake itself. For a pleasant and straightforward option, consider the Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, which is an easy walk with minimal elevation.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Llanwddyn. However, you are in an area with sensitive wildlife and livestock. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead and under control at all times, especially within the RSPB reserve and in fields with sheep.
Are there any good waterfall walks?
The region is known for its impressive waterfalls. The most accessible is Pistyll y Meirw, and there are several trails that lead to it. For a dedicated and rewarding short walk, the Rhiwargor Waterfall loop from Llanwddyn is an excellent choice that takes you right through the scenic Rhiwargor valley.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Llanwddyn?
The hiking routes here are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 1,900 visitors contributing to an average rating of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning views of Lake Vyrnwy, the well-maintained forest tracks, and the variety of trails available.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the nearby Berwyn Mountains offer more strenuous and remote routes. Hikes to peaks like Cadair Berwyn provide a true mountain experience with rewarding panoramic views that differ from the lakeside paths. These routes require good navigation skills and fitness.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The area, particularly the 24,000-acre RSPB reserve, is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds of prey like peregrine falcons and buzzards. In the woodlands, you might spot pied flycatchers and redstarts. The diverse habitats also support a variety of other fauna, so walking quietly can be very rewarding.
Are most of the walking routes circular?
Many of the most popular and waymarked trails in the Llanwddyn area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your steps. This includes lakeside strolls, forest walks, and routes to specific landmarks like the dam or waterfalls.
Is there a walk that includes the local sculptures?
Yes, there is a sculpture park below the dam and various other sculptures around the lake. The Sunken Village of Lake Vyrnwy – Giant Hand of Lake Vyrnwy loop from Llanwddyn is a moderate trail that incorporates several of these unique art installations into the hike.
How many hiking trails are there around Llanwddyn?
There is a wide variety of options to explore, with over 30 curated hiking routes available on komoot. These range from easy, short walks suitable for all abilities to difficult mountain treks, ensuring there's a trail for every type of hiker.
What is the best time of year to hike here?
Llanwddyn offers a unique experience in every season. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active birdlife. Summer provides long days perfect for extended hikes. Autumn is spectacular, with the forests displaying vibrant colours. Winter can be magical, with crisp air and snow on the Berwyn peaks, but be sure to check conditions and come prepared.
Are there any pubs or cafes for after a hike?
Yes, you can find refreshments in the area. The Artisans Café & Gift Shop near the dam is a popular spot for a coffee and a cake. There are also hotels and pubs in the vicinity of Lake Vyrnwy that welcome walkers looking for a meal or a drink after their excursion.
Most popular attractions around Llanwddyn
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