Top 20 Lakes in Powys
Best lakes in Powys, a county in Mid Wales, are characterized by a diverse collection of natural glacial lakes and vast Victorian-era reservoirs. These watery landscapes are set amidst remote mountains, thick forests, and rolling hills, providing varied terrain. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities, wildlife spotting, and peaceful retreats.
Best lakes in Powys
- The most popular lakes include Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, an other man-made feature that is one of the four Elan Valley Reservoirs. This reservoir is the second largest in the Elan Valley and features an impressive dam.
- Another must-see spot is Llyn y Fan Fawr, a natural monument. This glaciated lake is located at the foot of Fan Brycheiniog, offering views and a popular spot for rest and wild swimming.
- Visitors also love Gravel Path Along Claerwen Reservoir, a viewpoint along the largest and newest of the Elan Valley Reservoirs. This path provides views over the large lake and is suitable for cycling without traffic.
- Powys is known for its natural glacial lakes, large reservoirs, and man-made dams. Visitors can explore a variety of water bodies, from historical reservoirs to tranquil natural lakes.
- The lakes in Powys are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 140 upvotes and over 70 photos shared across 51 highlights.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Fan Brycheiniog summit and stone shelter
Highlight • Summit
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Tor y Foel Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Tommy Jones Memorial
Highlight • Monument
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Llyn y Fan Fawr
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
The cycle path goes to the right of the lakeshore and there is a small rest area at the top. Here you can relax a bit and watch the large water surface or admire the dam. Swimming is unfortunately not allowed, and would be no fun anyway, as the shore is hardly accessible.
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Gravel Path Along Claerwen Reservoir
Highlight • Viewpoint
The view over the huge lake is simply breathtaking. And the best: A really nice gravel path leads along it. Without any traffic, without people, without cell phone network. Here you have your peace.
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Talybont Reservoir Gravel Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
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Lake Vyrnwy Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Craig-y-Nos Country Park and Castle
Highlight • Lake
There are a few other accommodation options in the surrounding area, making Craig-y-Nos an excellent base for exploring both the Black Mountain to the north and the Ogof Ffynnon Ddu Nature Reserve to the east. Closer by, the park’s gentle paths and picturesque lakes are a delight to explore.
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Lower Neuadd Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
A challenging upland mountain walk that takes you into the heart of the Brecon Beacons. This includes some steep climbs and a flat ridge. You will find you may be walking on some made and some unmade footpaths. You'll be rewarded with spectacular views if the weather is good. Please be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.
What Essentials You Need:
• Good Sturdy Boots
• Windproof Outer Jacket
• Gloves
• Waterproofs
• Map
• Compass
• Torch
• 1st Aid Kit
• A Whistle.
all of which is listed above is and will be essentially needed at some point throughout this walk, as the weather is very changeable and the system can change in just minutes in these mountains.
Difficulty:- Challenging
Time:- 5 hours - 6 hours
Distance:- 10 miles (16 km)
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Popular around Powys
The Dragon's Back – running the spine of Wales
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Tips from the Community
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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When coming off the mountain to go down towards the car park it’s quite a steep scramble and can be slippery
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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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Elan Valley is a mountain bikers dream. A mix of natural trails that follow the reservoirs and crest the lofty tops of each valley. There's also a great trailhead in the middle of the valley at Nantgwyllt for some great flowing singletrack.
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Tucked away in a dreamy, isolated location in the upper Swansea Valley, Craig-y-nos Country Park is a gorgouous 40-acre park that was once owned by Adelina Patti. Now it is a Victorian garden set in woodlands, surrounded by meadows and ponds, dissected by the River Tawe. It is in a gorgeous location, and there is a great cafe there to boot.
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Area with nice views over the former reservoir, a couple of lost places and newly set up path and benches - an interesting mix of old and new and still in transformation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes in Powys?
Powys's lakes are rich in wildlife. At Lake Vyrnwy, you can spot buzzards, siskins, grebes, pied flycatchers, wood warblers, redstarts, and even peregrine falcons. Llyn Clywedog is known for red kites, buzzards, and ospreys. Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) is home to 13 fish species, including the critically endangered gwyniad, a relic from the last Ice Age.
Are there opportunities for cycling around the lakes in Powys?
Yes, several lakes offer excellent cycling. Lake Vyrnwy has a popular 12-mile route circling the lake. The Elan Valley Reservoirs feature a nine-mile, mostly traffic-free Elan Valley Trail. You can also find great cycling routes in the wider region, such as those listed in the Cycling in Powys guide.
Which lakes in Powys are good for family activities?
Many lakes in Powys are family-friendly. Lake Vyrnwy offers a sculpture park and craft shops in addition to its cycling route. The Elan Valley Reservoirs are great for easy walks and cycling. Llangorse Lake is popular for watersports and has a rich folklore. Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) provides non-motorized watersports and the unique Bala Lake Railway. Additionally, Craig-y-Nos Country Park and Castle is a family-friendly highlight with a lake.
Can I go hiking or walking around the lakes in Powys?
Absolutely. The lakes offer numerous walking and hiking trails. You can explore footpaths around Llyn Clywedog, including the Clywedog Scenic Trail. Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) has scenic walks like the Bala Lake Trail. For more challenging hikes, consider trails around Llyn y Fan Fawr or the nearby peaks. You can find more options in the Hiking in Powys guide.
What historical or unique features can I find at the lakes in Powys?
Powys's lakes boast fascinating history. Lake Vyrnwy features a gothic stone-built dam, the first of its kind in Britain, and a unique 'straining tower.' The Elan Valley Reservoirs are a marvel of Victorian engineering, built to supply water to Birmingham. Llangorse Lake is home to Wales's only crannog (an artificial island) and is steeped in folklore. Near Llyn Clywedog, you can explore the historic Bryntail Lead Mines.
Are there any lakes suitable for wild swimming in Powys?
While official swimming rules vary, some spots are known for wild swimming. Llyn y Fan Fawr is a popular spot for wild swimming, especially on a hot day, offering a refreshing experience in a stunning glaciated lake setting.
What are the best lakes for birdwatching in Powys?
Lake Vyrnwy is a significant nature reserve managed by the RSPB, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching. You can see a variety of species, including buzzards, siskins, and peregrine falcons. Llyn Clywedog is also a haven for wildlife, with regular sightings of red kites, buzzards, and ospreys.
Which lakes offer good fishing opportunities?
Fishing is popular at several Powys lakes. Lake Vyrnwy offers fishing, and the Elan Valley Reservoirs are known for fly fishing for trout. Llyn Clywedog is a popular spot for brown and rainbow trout. Llangorse Lake is famous for coarse fishing.
Are there any accessible trails around the lakes for visitors with limited mobility?
While specific accessible trails vary, the Elan Valley Trail around the Elan Valley Reservoirs is mostly traffic-free and follows an old railway line, making it generally suitable for a wider range of visitors. It's always recommended to check specific trail conditions before visiting.
What is the largest natural lake in Powys, and what can I do there?
Llangorse Lake is the largest natural lake in mid and south Wales, located within the Brecon Beacons National Park. It's famous for coarse fishing and watersports. It also holds historical significance with Wales's only crannog and is a site of international conservation importance.
Where can I find impressive dams and reservoirs in Powys?
Powys is home to several impressive dams and reservoirs. Lake Vyrnwy features a notable gothic stone-built dam. The Elan Valley Reservoirs, including Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, are a network of grand Victorian-era dams. Llyn Clywedog boasts the tallest dam in Britain, constructed in the 1960s.
What are the best lakes for stargazing in Powys?
Due to its secluded location and minimal light pollution, Lake Vyrnwy is an excellent spot for stargazing, offering clear views of the night sky.
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