Best lakes around Pontlliw And Tircoed offer a variety of natural and man-made water features within a short distance of the region. The area features significant reservoirs like the Lower Lliw Reservoir, known for its recreational activities and wildlife. Additionally, Penllergare Valley Woods provides woodland trails with smaller lake-like features and an ornamental waterfall. These locations present opportunities for walking, watersports, and nature observation.
Last updated: July 12, 2026
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This beautiful reservoir is framed by the stunning mountain scenery of the Brecon Beacons. From the vantage point of the Swidd Valley Trail, you can enjoy a great view of the reservoir and its picturesque surroundings.
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Lovely cycle path. Nice pub on route just off of cycle path with good food but a little expensive. Route has nice views
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Nice gravel track down to the reservoir with lovely views. Track down can get muddy but good fun. Do-able on a gravel bike
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Easy walking along the Eastern and Southern edges of the reservoir, courtesy of the Gower Way (a 35-mile path linking Penller Castell to Rhossili if you fancy stretching your legs a little further). Fantastic views.
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Set amongst the stunning mountain scenery of the Mawr, the Lower Lliw reservoir is surrounded by a variety of habitats including bracken, scrub, grass and woodland, supporting a variety of wildlife. If you're into birding, keep an eye out for Peregrine, Kestrel, Raven, Wheatear, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Whinchat, Red Kite and Curlew - which have all been spotted here. There is an accessible path to the South of Lower Lliw Reservoir that will take you all the way to the Upper Reservoir. The circular path closer to the shore-line features steep steps in places.
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Great place to canoe or SUP. Organised tours can be arranged or you can self-launch, with permission.
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Cyclists need to be aware of vehicles and walkers using the road between the Lower and Upper reservoir.
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The lower reservoir is not suitable to go around. There are steep steps at one end.
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The Lower Lliw Reservoir, located north of Swansea, offers a variety of recreational activities and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking, or try trout fishing. The area also features a two-mile circular walk, accessible paths, and a natural timber play area for children. It's rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot various bird species and features hand-carved Welsh oak sculptures along the 'Lower Lliw Trail'. For more details, you can visit visitswanseabay.com.
Penllergare Valley Woods offers a network of woodland trails with picturesque water features. A popular route is the 'Penllergare Valley Woods to Lake Side loop', and another leads to the iconic Penllergare Waterfall, a manmade feature on the River Llan that creates an ornamental lake. These woods provide accessible paths suitable for family-friendly hikes and tranquil scenery.
Yes, several locations offer family-friendly activities. The Lower Lliw Reservoir has a natural timber play area with climbing platforms and balance beams. WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre is a vast area with ponds and marshes, perfect for birdwatching and exploring nature with children. Penllergare Valley Woods also provides accessible paths suitable for family hikes.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At Lower Lliw Reservoir, you can spot rare flora and fauna, including various bird species like kestrel, raven, red kite, wheatear, meadow pipit, skylark, whinchat, and curlew. WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre is a significant birdwatching location, home to native herons and even Caribbean flamingoes.
Yes, the Lower Lliw Reservoir offers an accessible four-mile trail around the lower reservoir, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Additionally, Penllergare Valley Woods provides accessible paths within its woodland trails.
You can enjoy a relatively easy two-mile circular walk around the Lower Lliw Reservoir. Penllergare Valley Woods features trails like the 'Penllergare Valley Woods to Lake Side loop' and the 'Penllergare Waterfall – Penllergare Lower Lake loop'. For more easy hikes in the area, you can explore routes like the Penllergare Valley Woods to Lake Side loop.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Swiss Valley Reservoir (Lower Lliedi Reservoir) features a lovely cycle path with scenic views. You can also find various road cycling and mountain biking routes in the broader region. For example, explore the Clyne Valley Cycle Path – Swansea Bay loop or the Lower Lliw Reservoir and Café loop for mountain biking.
At the Lower Lliw Reservoir, there is a dedicated car park. While the on-site café's leaseholders have discontinued, toilets remain accessible. The Upper Lliw Reservoir also has a café in the car park, which accepts cash.
The Lower Lliw Reservoir has historical significance, with its dam originally completed in 1867 and rebuilt in 1979. It historically supplied water to Swansea. The Penllergare Waterfall is also a manmade feature, constructed on the River Llan to create an ornamental lake.
Beyond the reservoirs, the area boasts unique natural features. The Penllergare Waterfall in Penllergare Valley Woods is a notable manmade waterfall creating an ornamental lake. The Lower Lliw Reservoir area features hand-carved Welsh oak sculptures of native wildlife along its trail, adding an artistic touch to the natural surroundings.
Yes, watersports are available. The Lower Lliw Reservoir offers activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. Additionally, the Swiss Valley Reservoir (Lower Lliedi Reservoir) is a great place for canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding, with organized tours or self-launching options available with permission.


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