The best running trails around Lake Vyrnwy
5.0
(1)
113
runners
6
runs
Jogging around Lake Vyrnwy offers a variety of running experiences within a landscape characterized by the expansive reservoir, surrounding woodlands, and rolling hills. The area features well-maintained paths and quiet country roads, providing varied terrain for runners. Elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes including steeper sections that offer panoramic views of the lake and its natural surroundings.
Best jogging routes around Lake Vyrnwy
- The most popular jogging route is Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Lake Vyrnwy and Dam loop…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
11
runners
6.17km
00:46
210m
200m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
7.72km
00:53
170m
170m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
35
runners
11.8km
01:30
270m
270m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
5.69km
00:36
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
runners
19.2km
02:59
1,020m
1,020m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Abertridwr is just a short stroll from Lake Vrynwy and is a good base camp for hikes around the reservoir and into the vast Dyfnant Forest. There's a village store for stocking up and you'll find tent pitches at the Lake Vrynwy Campsite. The village features on the Glyndŵr’s Way National Trail.
1
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
About 5ft deep and 8ft in diameter, enough to sit and shelter from the wind. Good place to stop for coffee for 5/6 people.
0
0
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
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of running experiences can I expect around Lake Vyrnwy?
Lake Vyrnwy offers a diverse range of running experiences, characterized by its expansive reservoir, dense woodlands, and rolling hills. You'll find well-maintained paths and quiet country roads, with terrain varying from moderate to some steeper sections that provide panoramic views of the lake and its natural surroundings.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes at Lake Vyrnwy?
While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the shortest moderate option is the Running loop from Llangynog, which is 3.5 miles (5.7 km) long. This route has minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous run.
How long does it take to jog around Lake Vyrnwy?
The time it takes to jog around Lake Vyrnwy varies significantly depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, which is 7.4 miles (11.8 km), typically takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes. A longer, more challenging route like the View of Lake Vyrnwy loop from Abertridwr, at 16 miles (25.8 km), could take over 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Are there any circular running trails available?
Yes, many of the routes around Lake Vyrnwy are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Lake Vyrnwy and Dam loop from Abertridwr and the Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Giants of Vyrnwy loop from Abertridwr.
What kind of scenery or landmarks can I expect to see on the running routes?
The routes offer stunning views of the Lake Vyrnwy reservoir, forested sections, and gentle hills. You can also pass by notable landmarks such as the impressive Lake Vyrnwy Dam, the unique Giants of Vyrnwy forest, and the Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower. Some routes even take you near the beautiful Nant y Maes Waterfall.
Are there any less crowded running paths around Lake Vyrnwy?
While the main dam area can be popular, exploring routes further afield or during off-peak times can offer a quieter experience. The Running loop from Llangynog, starting from a different village, might provide a more secluded run away from the central lake activity.
What is the best season for jogging around Lake Vyrnwy?
Lake Vyrnwy is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier. Winter running is possible, but be prepared for colder, potentially wet conditions, and check local weather forecasts.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along the running trails?
Absolutely! Many routes feature points of interest. You can run past the iconic Lake Vyrnwy Dam, marvel at the Hand Sculpture of the Tallest Tree in the UK, or discover the serene Nant y Maes Waterfall. These highlights add an extra dimension to your run.
How many running routes are available in the Lake Vyrnwy area?
This guide features 5 distinct running routes around Lake Vyrnwy, ranging in difficulty from moderate to difficult. These routes have been used by over 100 runners on komoot, showcasing the best of the region's landscape.
What are the typical distances of running routes in Lake Vyrnwy?
The running routes around Lake Vyrnwy vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter runs like the Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Lake Vyrnwy and Dam loop from Abertridwr at 3.9 miles (6.2 km), or opt for longer challenges such as the View of Lake Vyrnwy loop from Abertridwr, which spans 16 miles (25.8 km).
Is Lake Vyrnwy suitable for trail running or more road running?
Lake Vyrnwy offers a mix of both. You'll find well-maintained paths that are suitable for trail running, especially through forested sections, as well as quiet country roads that provide a smoother surface for road running. The varied terrain caters to different preferences.
Most popular routes around Lake Vyrnwy
Most popular attractions around Lake Vyrnwy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
