Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
Wales
South Wales

Blaengwrach

Top 6 Lakes around Blaengwrach

Best lakes around Blaengwrach are found in a rural community within Neath Port Talbot, Wales. The area is characterized by its natural landscapes, including Llyn Fach, a notable lake situated within the Craig-y-Llyn nature reserve. This region is recognized for its ecological significance, being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) that supports unique aquatic plants and wildlife. The surrounding upland terrain offers views of the valley and distant Brecon Beacons.

Best lakes around Blaengwrach

  • The most popular lakes is…

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Lluest-wen Reservoir Dam Wall

Highlight • Structure

Lluest-wen Reservoir was constructed in 1898, but came to national attention in 1969 when a major leak caused an evacuation of residents down-valley while emergency repair work was carried out. …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities.

The paths can be wet and boggy at times, and if you're following …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Crossing the moorland from Rhigos towards Aberdare is a network of gravel forest roads.

Great in the sun, but not so good with the wind in your face, it's an …

Tip by

Save

At the far point of the Skyline trail is a viewpoint where you can look out into the Brecon Beacons, and hopefully (on a clear day) catch a glimpse of the National Park's highest peak – Pen y Fan.

Tip by

Save

The climb towards Bryn Llechwenddiddos and Bryn Gelli rewards you with great views of the reservoir.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Blaengwrach.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Blaengwrach

Hiking around Blaengwrach

Cycling around Blaengwrach

Road Cycling Routes around Blaengwrach

MTB Trails around Blaengwrach

Running Trails around Blaengwrach

Gravel biking around Blaengwrach

Tips from the Community

Mark Jacobs
April 7, 2026, Lluest-wen Reservoir Dam Wall

The water here is stunning in the sunlight. A good place to take a few moments to rest the legs.

0

0

Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities.Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities.

0

0

Lluest-wen Reservoir was constructed in 1898, but came to national attention in 1969 when a major leak caused an evacuation of residents down-valley while emergency repair work was carried out. Back in 1929 the place set a maximum daily rainfall record for Wales, with 211mm of rain recorded. You have been warned!

2

0

The climb towards Bryn Llechwenddiddos and Bryn Gelli rewards you with great views of the reservoir.

1

0

Lluest-wen Reservoir was constructed in 1898, but came to national attention in 1969 when a major leak caused an evacuation of residents down-valley while emergency repair work was carried out. Back in 1929 the place set a maximum daily rainfall record for Wales, with 211mm of rain recorded. You have been warned!

2

0

Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe, check opening times before relying on facilities. The paths can be wet and boggy at times, and if you're following the Penrhiwllech trail over the plateau of Tarren y Bwlfa, be aware of cliff edges!

1

0

Fun singletrack which breaks up the many km's on gravel firetrack road.

0

1

Great trail running along the ridge line overlooking the nature reserve.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some notable natural lakes in the Blaengwrach area?

The most significant natural lake is Llyn Fach, located within the Craig-y-Llyn nature reserve. It's recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique ecological characteristics. While not directly in Blaengwrach, a View of Llyn Fawr from the Skyline Trail offers views of another notable lake from a distance.

Are there family-friendly lakes to visit around Blaengwrach?

Yes, the Lake at Dare Valley Country Park is considered family-friendly. It features a visitor centre and cafe, though some paths can be wet and boggy at times.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?

Llyn Fach, in particular, is ecologically significant. It supports aquatic plants typical of low-nutrient lakes, including the rare Water lobelia, which is at its southernmost British location here. A population of Water voles has also been discovered, adding to its biodiversity.

Can I go hiking or walking near the lakes in Blaengwrach?

Absolutely. The area around Llyn Fach and Craig-y-Llyn is ideal for hiking and exploring natural landscapes. For easy hikes, you can find routes like the 'Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall – Ddwli Waterfall loop' or 'Melincourt Falls loop' which are part of the Easy hikes around Blaengwrach guide.

Are there cycling opportunities around the lakes?

Yes, there are excellent cycling opportunities. The Gravel Roads by Lluest-Wen Reservoir and Wind Farm offer a network of gravel forest roads suitable for covering ground quickly and staying off tarmac. You can find more routes in the Cycling around Blaengwrach and Gravel biking around Blaengwrach guides.

What is the historical significance of any of the reservoirs?

The Lluest-wen Reservoir Dam Wall has a notable history. Constructed in 1898, it gained national attention in 1969 when a major leak led to the evacuation of residents downstream while emergency repairs were carried out. It also holds a Welsh record for maximum daily rainfall from 1929.

Are there any lakes with good viewpoints?

Yes, the area offers several viewpoints. The View of Llyn Fawr from the Skyline Trail provides expansive views, and the climb towards Bryn Llechwenddiddos and Bryn Gelli rewards you with great views of the Bryn Gelli Reservoir and Wind Farm.

What are the best times to visit the lakes around Blaengwrach for hiking?

The region is known for its natural beauty, making spring and summer ideal for enjoying the lush landscapes and longer daylight hours. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Be aware that paths can be wet and boggy at times, especially after rain, so check conditions before you go.

Are there any facilities like cafes or visitor centers near the lakes?

Yes, the Lake at Dare Valley Country Park has a visitor centre and cafe. It's always a good idea to check their opening times before your visit.

Are the lakes around Blaengwrach accessible for all visitors?

While specific accessibility information for all lakes is limited, the Lake at Dare Valley Country Park, being family-friendly with a visitor center, likely offers some accessible paths. However, many trails around natural lakes like Llyn Fach involve upland terrain which may not be suitable for wheelchairs.

Are there dog-friendly trails around the lakes?

Many of the outdoor trails and natural areas around Blaengwrach's lakes are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. The gravel roads around Lluest-Wen Reservoir are generally suitable for walks with dogs.

What makes Llyn Fach ecologically significant?

Llyn Fach is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique standing water ecosystem. It is home to aquatic plants typical of low-nutrient lakes, including Water lobelia, which is rare in Britain and found at its southernmost point here. It also supports a population of Water voles.

Are there any circular walks around the lakes in Blaengwrach?

While specific circular walks directly around every lake aren't detailed, many of the hiking and cycling routes in the area, such as those found in the Easy hikes around Blaengwrach guide, offer loop options that explore the surrounding landscapes and may include lake views.

Most popular routes around Blaengwrach

Hiking around Blaengwrach

Most popular attractions around Blaengwrach

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Blaengwrach? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

PembrokeshireCrayYstradfellteMaescarLlangynidrLlanfrynachTalybont-On-UskGlyn TarellLlanwrtyd WellsLlangattockBreconCeredigionCrickhowellPen TranchTrevethinLlanrhidian HigherCarmarthenshirePontarddulaisMawrAbersychanNew InnBedwas Trethomas & MachenPontprennauOld St MellonsRadyr and MorganstownPonthirLlanfihangel Cwmdu With Bwlch And CathedineLlangorsRhondda Cynon TafTawe-UchafRisca WestMonmouthshireLlywelPentwynLisvaneCyncoedCymer And GlyncorrwgWhitchurchGwynfi And CroeserwLlanddewGowertonGorseinonGrovesend And WaungronPenllergaerLlwchwrPontlliw And TircoedRudryAbercarnHenllysCwmbran CentralLlantarnamRoathRhiwbinaCardiffCathaysLlanishenLlandaff NorthHeathPenylanRisca EastYstradgynlaisPentyrchSwanseaMumblesPennardIlstonUpper KillayTalgarthNewbridgeCrumlinUpper CwmbranLlanyrafonFairwaterAber ValleyLlanrhidian LowerLlangennith, Llanmadoc And CheritonTongwynlaisPenyrheol Trecenydd & EnerglynGlynneathCaerphillyTrallongFelin-FachCoedffrancKillayDunvantSkettyPantegCroesyceiliogPontymoilePontnewyddCockettPenderryLlangyfelachLlanbradachYnysdduThe Vale Of GrwyneyCrosskeysVanHonddu IsafOnllwynResolvenPelennaMargamPort TalbotBrynMargam MoorsAberavonSandfields EastTai-BachBirchgroveLlansamletMorristonMynyddbachBon-Y-MaenClydachBlaenavonYscirDyffryn ClydachMerthyr TydfilLandoreVale of GlamorganBronllys

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Glynneath

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy