Top 11 Lakes around Porthmadog
Best lakes around Porthmadog are found within the Snowdonia National Park, a region characterized by its diverse natural and man-made water bodies. The area features a mix of glacial lakes, large reservoirs, and smaller, secluded tarns. These lakes are set against a backdrop of mountains and valleys, providing varied landscapes for exploration. The region offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water-based activities.
Best lakes around Porthmadog
- The most popular lakes is Llyn Dinas, a large, shallow lake located northeast of Beddgelert. It is set in the Nantgwynant valley, with views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and offers opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing.
- Another must-see spot is Maentwrog Dam, a man-made structure built in the 1920s to provide hydroelectric power. This dam is easy to ride over and forms part of the route around the lake.
- Visitors also love Llyn Trawsfynydd, an enormous man-made reservoir. Cycleways and footpaths encircle the lake, offering well-maintained routes for cycling and walking through woodlands and wetlands.
- Porthmadog is known for its mix of natural glacial lakes, large artificial reservoirs, and smaller, decorative lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, each with distinct features and surroundings.
- The lakes around Porthmadog are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 30 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Llyn Dinas
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Llyn Trawsfynydd
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Cycleways and footpaths have been created around the lakeshore and are well-maintained. With woodlands, nature reserves and wetlands, there’s a lot of animal and birdlife here, as well as Atlantic oakwoods. You can cycle the entire way around the lake thanks to a new trail and National Cycle Route 82 leads you from the north around the eastern side.
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Maentwrog Dam
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Llyn Llywelyn
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The lake is lined with trees, and sat underneath the surrounding mountains, notably the striking Moel Lefn.
Definitely worth stopping to soak in the views, no matter what sort of day out you're on.
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Stwlan Dam
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Llyn Dinas is a picturesque 24-hectare glacial lake in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in North Wales, near Beddgelert in the Nant Gwynant valley. It is a popular spot for scenic walks, wild trout fishing, paddleboarding, and swimming. The lake is relatively shallow (maximum 10 metres) and lies on the lower slopes near the Watkin Path to the summit of Snowdon.
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Lovely lunch spot with picnic benches at the waterside
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Situated just to the north of Beddgelert, and named after the nearby hill fort of Dinas Emrys, Llyn Dinas is a beautiful, peaceful lake perfect for a walk or even a swim.
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Llyn Dinas is a large but shallow lake to the northeast of Beddgelert. The A498 road runs along its northern shore, while there are footpaths that explore its southern banks. Routes up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) from the mountain's southern side begin just to the northeast of the lake, including the Watkin Path, which is one of the most strenuous ways to the roof of Wales.
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Llyn Llywelyn is a relatively small lake, sat with Beddgelert forest. The lake is lined with trees, and sat underneath the surrounding mountains, notably the striking Moel Lefn. Definitely worth stopping to soak in the views, no matter what sort of day out you're on.
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Maentwrog Dam was built in the 1920s to provide a source of hydroelectric power. Later in 1965 the lake also became a source of cooling water for the nuclear power station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes around Porthmadog for visitors?
Visitors often enjoy Llyn Dinas, a large, shallow lake known for swimming and paddleboarding with views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Another popular choice is Llyn Trawsfynydd, an enormous man-made reservoir with well-maintained cycleways and footpaths.
Are there good hiking trails around the lakes near Porthmadog?
Yes, many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. For instance, Llyn Trawsfynydd has well-maintained footpaths encircling it. The wild and beautiful area around Llyn Cwm Bychan in the Rhinogydd mountains is also an excellent choice for hikers seeking stunning views and a quiet walk. You can find various hiking routes in the region, including those listed in the Mountain Hikes around Porthmadog guide.
Can I go cycling around any of the lakes?
Absolutely. Llyn Trawsfynydd is particularly well-suited for cycling, with dedicated cycleways and footpaths encircling the entire lake, including sections of National Cycle Route 82. You can also find various road cycling routes in the area, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Porthmadog guide.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming or paddleboarding?
Llyn Dinas is a popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing, especially on warm days. Llynnau Mymbyr (Capel Curig Lakes) also offers opportunities for canoeing and swimming, with enthusiasts from local outdoor centers frequently using the waters.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes around Porthmadog offer diverse natural features. You'll find glacial lakes like Llyn Dinas and Glaslyn, set in dramatic cwm valleys. Llyn Trawsfynydd, though man-made, is surrounded by woodlands, nature reserves, and wetlands, supporting diverse animal and birdlife. Llynnau Mymbyr provides magnificent views of the Snowdon Horseshoe.
Are there any less crowded lakes for a peaceful experience?
For a more remote and peaceful experience, consider Llyn Cwm Bychan in the rugged Rhinogydd mountains. It's generally less crowded than other parts of Snowdonia, offering a tranquil natural environment. Llyn y Gadair, nestled in the foothills of Cader Idris, is another hidden gem for those seeking quiet natural beauty.
Are there family-friendly lakes or walks suitable for children?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Llyn Dinas is a popular family spot for picnics and water activities. The well-maintained cycleways and footpaths around Llyn Trawsfynydd are also suitable for family walks and bike rides. Llyn Mair, a Victorian decorative lake, offers a pleasant, easy walk.
What historical or cultural significance do some of these lakes hold?
Glaslyn, a high-altitude lake on Snowdon, is steeped in Arthurian legend, with some identifying it as the lake where Bedivere threw Excalibur. Llyn Trawsfynydd and Maentwrog Dam are significant for their role in hydroelectric power generation, with the former also having served a nuclear power station.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Porthmadog?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports. During these months, the days are longer, and temperatures are milder, though Snowdonia weather can be unpredictable at any time.
Are there any unique man-made structures associated with the lakes?
Yes, the region features several notable man-made structures. Maentwrog Dam and Stwlan Dam are impressive structures built for hydroelectric power. Llyn Trawsfynydd is an enormous man-made reservoir, originally built for power generation and later as a cooling source for a nuclear power station.
What kind of wildlife can be seen around the lakes?
The lakes and their surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Llyn Trawsfynydd is known for its diverse waterfowl, and ospreys are occasionally spotted. Its wetlands and woodlands also support various animal species. Llyn Cwm Bychan is home to wild brown trout, and salmon and sewin can occasionally run through the Artro river into the lake.
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