Top 16 Lakes around Cadfarch
Best lakes around Cadfarch are found within a landscape characterized by its natural water features and surrounding hills. The region offers a variety of lake environments, from man-made reservoirs to natural mountain pools. These areas provide opportunities for exploration and connection with the natural environment. The lakes are often set amidst the Cambrian Mountains, offering views and diverse ecosystems.
Best lakes around Cadfarch
- The most popular lakes is Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake), a lake known for its water lilies…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Clywedog Dam
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Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit
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High as a Kite Red Trail
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Enjoy the cracking view from the bench at the top, where you can …
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Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake)
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Barcud Bach Blue Trail
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Built primarily to regulate the flow of water in the River Severn, the Clywedog Dam is an impressive sight. It's the tallest concrete dam in Britain, at 236 feet (72 m) high, while it's also 750 feet (230 m) wide. There are two marked hiking trails on the reservoir.
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Llyn Clywedog was the Tallest in the British Isle built purposely to control the level of water to help prevent any future flooding from the source of the River Seven. By Building this absolutely incredible huge 6 mile long dam, one that was the tallest in the British isles, which is amazingly huge in actual size all around! This mammoth body of water is solely to take the huge pressure off the constant mass of floods which would fill up and submerge the surrounding valleys! At the foot of the dam there is a remains of a old lead mine! All structures you can see standing still today. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
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Nice climb up Pumlumon Fawr from this side.
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Third highest summit in the Pumlumon range, Pen Pumlumon Llygad-bychan is perhaps most notable for its proximity to the source of the River Wye. To the north of the summit is the lovely pool of Llyn Llygad Rheidiol, while Pumlumon's principal summit is just a short walk along the Cambrian Way to the northeast. While the summit itself is not particularly distinguished and is known to be on the boggy side, it does offer lovely views across the Cambrian Mountains of Mid Wales.
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The Bearded Lake or Llyn Barfog is a pretty mountain lake below Mynydd y Llyn. It's fringed with water lilies and other plants which may explain its name. Legend has it that once a monster lived here, terrorising the local people. King Arthur came to rid the area of the menace, lassoing the monster with magical chains and dragging it out of the lake with his horse Llamrai. You can even see the horse’s footprint in a nearby rockface - Carn March Arthur.
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Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan (727m, a Hewitt & Nuttall) is the third highest summit on the Plynlimon massif. The summit is boggy and marked by a few stones. The source of the River Wye, is just South of the summit. The picturesque glacial lake of Llyn Llygad Rheidiol lies to the North.
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Fast and flowing running almost along side the red trail back to the lake. Great to add on to the end as its a short climb back to the top for it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes around Cadfarch?
Visitors frequently enjoy Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake), known for its water lilies and local legends. Another popular spot is Clywedog Dam, an impressive man-made lake with marked hiking trails. The area around Pen Pumlumon Llygad-Bychan summit is also appreciated for its views across the Cambrian Mountains.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Cadfarch?
Yes, Clywedog Dam is considered family-friendly. It features two marked hiking trails around the reservoir, offering accessible options for families to explore.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Cadfarch lakes?
The lakes around Cadfarch are set amidst the Cambrian Mountains, offering diverse ecosystems. You can find natural mountain pools, large man-made reservoirs like Clywedog Dam, and lakes fringed with water lilies and plants, such as Llyn Barfog. The region is characterized by its natural water features and surrounding hills.
Are there easy walks around Cadfarch lakes?
Yes, there are easy walking options. For instance, the hiking guide for Cadfarch includes easy routes like the 'Cwm Llinos – Machynlleth loop' and 'Toad Hall Hostel – Machynlleth loop', which can be enjoyed near the region's natural landscapes.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Cadfarch?
Besides hiking, the area offers excellent opportunities for mountain biking and gravel biking. You can find various routes in the MTB Trails around Cadfarch guide and the Gravel biking around Cadfarch guide. Some trails, like the 'High as a Kite Red Trail' and 'Barcud Bach Blue Trail', even offer views of the lakes.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Cadfarch?
The lakes around Cadfarch are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the surrounding hills, while winter can provide a serene, tranquil experience, though some trails might be more challenging.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes around Cadfarch?
While some natural lakes in the region might be used for wild swimming, it's important to exercise caution. Always check local regulations, water quality, and safety conditions before entering the water. The guide data does not specifically endorse or provide details on wild swimming spots.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Cadfarch lakes?
The diverse ecosystems around Cadfarch's lakes support various wildlife. Birdwatchers might spot red kites, especially around areas like Bwlch Nant yr Arian. The natural water features and surrounding hills provide habitats for a range of flora and fauna typical of the Cambrian Mountains.
Are there any notable historical or legendary sites associated with Cadfarch lakes?
Yes, Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake) is steeped in local legends, including tales of a monster and King Arthur's horse, Llamrai, whose footprint is said to be visible in a nearby rockface. Additionally, Clywedog Dam, while modern, is a significant engineering feat, being the tallest concrete dam in Britain.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Cadfarch?
Visitors appreciate the stunning views across the Cambrian Mountains, the variety of lake environments from natural pools to impressive reservoirs, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The tranquility and natural beauty, along with the chance to explore marked hiking and biking trails, are frequently highlighted.
How long do walks around Cadfarch lakes typically take?
Walk durations vary depending on the specific route and your pace. For example, easy hiking routes like the 'Cwm Llinos – Machynlleth loop' are around 6.3 km, while moderate routes like 'Foel Fadian – Descent along the Afon Dulas loop' are about 9.7 km. The marked trails around Clywedog Dam also offer varying lengths.
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