Top 7 Lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney
Lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney are situated in a region primarily defined by the River Grwyney and its tributaries, which flow into the River Usk. This area, part of Powys, Wales, is characterized by the Black Mountains of the eastern Brecon Beacons National Park. The landscape features Old Red Sandstone hills, with sandstones and mudstones visible in riverbeds and valley sides. While the immediate Vale of Grwyney is river-centric, the broader surrounding area offers diverse bodies of water.
Best lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney
- The most popular lakes is Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond), a natural monument that offers views across the Usk Valley towards the Sugar Loaf and the Black Mountains. It is a popular site for picnics and wildlife observation within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site.
- Another must-see spot is The Punchbowl Lake, an other natural feature. This picturesque man-made lake is set within a wooded glacial cwm, offering a secluded spot for rest or a picnic.
- Visitors also love Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan), the largest natural lake in mid and south Wales. It is a significant site for wildlife, including water voles and various bird species, and holds historical importance with Wales's only crannog.
- The Vale Of Grwyney is known for its variety of water bodies, including natural lakes, man-made reservoirs, and smaller ponds. These range from tranquil, wild settings to popular spots for watersports and fishing.
- The lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney are appreciated by the komoot community, with 208 upvotes and 64 photos contributing to their appeal.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond)
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The Punchbowl Lake
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Devil's Punchbowl Pond
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You'll likely have enjoyed a descent to get to it, so if so it's inevitable there'll be some climbing in your near future!
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Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan)
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View of Gilwern and the Surrounding Hills
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Tips from the Community
Easy walk, bit rocky at the top, very enjoyable walk
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Keeper’s Pond is an amazing pond, outstanding beauty with great views of the Usk valley 🤩
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Llangasty (St Gastyn's Church). A lovely place to stop on the southern shore of the largest natural lake in south Wales.
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Nice little pond, good place to park to do the circular route of Blorenge.
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Lovely little pond with an island in the middle.
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I'm a fit 66 year old and for me this was a tough climb up from Llanfoist, but so worth it. Very stony and uneven underfoot and there are several stiles to climb over.
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A stunning lake with loads of legends about it. A wild swimming spot (although can be weedy), but for me it's just a great place to sit and pull out the thermos flask.
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This place is absolutely beautiful. I would love to just hang out here with some friends. I was however on a schedule and couldn't loiter
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney?
Visitors frequently enjoy Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) for its stunning views across the Usk Valley and its suitability for picnics and wildlife watching. Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan) is also highly regarded as the largest natural lake in mid and south Wales, known for its rich wildlife and historical significance.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?
Yes, Keeper's Pond (Pen-Ffordd-Goch Pond) is a popular choice for families, offering a great spot for picnics and wildlife observation. Llangorse Lake (Llyn Syfaddan) and its associated Bird Hide are also excellent for families interested in nature and birdwatching.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are rich in biodiversity. At Llangorse Lake, you might spot water voles, otters, warblers, coots, swallows, swifts, and large flocks of Canada geese. Keeper's Pond is also a good spot for general wildlife observation.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, Llangorse Lake is home to Wales's only crannog, an important historical and archaeological site. Additionally, Keeper's Pond is located within the Blaenavon World Heritage Site, an area rich in industrial archaeology. The trails around The Punchbowl Lake also follow an early 19th-century tramway system, showcasing the region's industrial past.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Gospel Pass – Llanthony Priory Ruins loop' or 'Brynich Aqueduct – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop'. For running, trails such as 'Waun Fach horse shoe from Llanbedr' or 'Pen Twyn Mawr – Pen y Gadair Fawr Summit Cairn loop' are available. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around The Vale Of Grwyney and Running Trails around The Vale Of Grwyney guides.
Can I go fishing in the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Grwyne Fawr Reservoir is known for wild brown trout, with day tickets available from the Glanusk Estate. Llangorse Lake is also a popular destination for coarse fishing.
Are there opportunities for watersports?
Yes, Llangorse Lake is a popular spot for watersports, though a permit is required for boating, and not all areas are accessible. Devil's Punchbowl Pond is also mentioned as a great wild swimming spot.
What are the best lakes for a tranquil or secluded experience?
For a truly tranquil and wild setting, Grwyne Fawr Reservoir is ideal, offering solitude and remote beauty. The Punchbowl Lake is also described as a secluded spot for rest or a picnic within a wooded glacial cwm, and Devil's Punchbowl Pond offers a tranquil setting in ancient pasture.
Are there any challenging hikes or routes near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers challenging routes. For instance, the circuit around the Blorenge mountain, which includes The Punchbowl Lake, features steep climbs and rough terrain. For cycling, routes like 'Talgarth, Gospel Pass & Llanthony Priory loop' are rated as difficult. You can find more challenging options in the Cycling around The Vale Of Grwyney and Running Trails around The Vale Of Grwyney guides.
What kind of terrain can I expect around the lakes?
The landscape is characterized by the Old Red Sandstone hills of the Black Mountains, with sandstones and mudstones visible in riverbeds and valley sides. Around Grwyne Fawr Reservoir, you'll find steep-sided terrain. Trails around The Punchbowl Lake can involve rough terrain and some high-level walking.
Is it possible to walk all the way around Llangorse Lake?
No, it is not possible to walk all the way around Llangorse Lake. Part of the land is privately owned, which restricts a full circular walk.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around The Vale Of Grwyney?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, the opportunities for picnics and wildlife watching, and the sense of tranquility and remote beauty offered by various spots. The historical and archaeological significance, especially at Llangorse Lake and around the Blaenavon World Heritage Site, also adds to the appeal.
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Still not found your perfect lake around The Vale Of Grwyney? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
