Cwm Idwal
A glacier-carved circular valley with Llyn Idwal, Wales' first national nature reserve. The lakeside loop trail takes about 1.5–2 hours.
Cwm Idwal is a classic glacial landform in the Ogwen Valley, enclosed by the steep cliffs of the Glyderau range. Mist often pours out of the “Devil's Kitchen” gorge in the centre of the cliff face, and Darwin studied glacial action here. It became Wales' first national nature reserve in 1954, and rare Arctic-alpine plants grow in its rock crevices. Starting from Ogwen Cottage beside the A5 (with toilets and a café), follow the stone path uphill for about 20 minutes to the lake shore. The loop around the lake is about 5 km. Parking is limited, so arrive early in peak season or take the Sherpa bus.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Tryfan
- Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
- Zip World Penrhyn Quarry (Velocity 2)
- Snowdon Mountain Railway
- Dolbadarn Castle & Llyn Padarn
- National Slate Museum
- Aber Falls
- Beddgelert