If one thing is certain, it’s that North Wales is home to some of the most breath-taking natural scenery globally. We know that better than anyone at Allens Caravans, with two of our holiday parks being situated in the area. From the mountains of Snowdonia to the stunning coastline, the view of North Wales is unmatched. Despite this, one thing that sets it apart from other countries is its remarkable lakes. These unique bodies of water allow for fishing, swimming, water sports, or simply admiring, making them the ideal spot for holiday-goers.
Should you pay a visit to Aber Bay or Sunbeach, don’t forget to experience the stunning, albeit rather chilly, North Wales Lakes.
Otherwise known as Bala Lake, Llyn Tegid is the largest natural body of water in Wales and is situated in a region nicknamed the Welsh Lake District. The lake sits on the outskirts of the market town of Bala, while the Bala Lake Railway runs along the south-east shore. Moreover, the lake is abundant in local mythology, including the Loch Ness monster’s Welsh companion, Teggie. Despite this, Teggie is yet to scare off tourists, with the lake being a top spot for swimming, walking, and water sports.
Just below Snowdon sits Llyn Gwynant, making it a hotspot for the locals. The lake sits among mountainous landscapes, creating a pocket of quiet away from the hustle and bustle. Thanks to the rocky outskirts of the lake, Llyn Gwynant is a popular location for swimmers. What’s more, it’s not too far from the traditional Welsh pubs, meaning after a busy day of swimming and picnicking, visitors can indulge in a comforting pub dinner.
Not only is Llyn Llydaw the most visited lake in Wales, but it also sits among the most visited lakes in the whole of the UK. Due to its location of around one-third of the way up Snowdon, it has gained the reputation of being one of Britain’s coldest lakes. You’ll see the lake when wandering the Miners’ Track of Snowdon and likely recognise it as a lake that’s linked to Arthurian legend. In fact, Llyn Lldaw has been said to be the resting place of Excalibur, King Arthur’s sword.
Llyn Cwellyn is the perfect location for a gentle lakeside walk thanks to its accessibility, wooden boardwalk path, picnic tables, and benches. The trail will lead you through the woods, bringing you to Llyn Cwellyn, where you’ll see Snowdon and other surrounding mountains.
Perhaps you’re looking for something more intense than a relaxing stroll; if so, Llyn Cwellyn is the place for you. This is the ideal location for water sports and sits within Gwydyr Forest, making it quite the challenge to locate. After the adventure of actually tracking down the lake, the space allows for water skiing and powerboats, all while basking in the stunning Snowdonia scenery. Additionally, once you’re all tuckered out, there are plenty of picnic spots to replenish and recharge.
Llyn Elsi sits within a forest beside the charming village of Betws y-Coed in the Conwy Valley. Here, you can immerse yourself in the scenery of Moel Siabod, making the lake a real treat for nature lovers who can’t wait to seek out fascinating wildlife. Moreover, there is a path that revolves around the lake and at the highest point of 700ft, the Carneddau mountain range can be seen.
Being found in the crater of one of Wales’s most famous mountains, Llyn Cau is one of the more difficult lakes to track down. After all, it’s not very often that you have to climb up to a lake, and the entire 350m ascent will take you roughly 30 minutes. Despite this, once you reach your goal, you’ll soon see it’s worth the strain. This is another lake that’s connected to Welsh folklore, with some saying that the lake is bottomless and home to a monster. One thing that sets Llyn Cau apart from the rest is its unspoiled natural beauty, so make sure you have your camera to hand.
Last but not least is Llyn Padarn, which is a popular lake in Snowdonia at Llanberis. The remains of Dolbardam Castle, one of the oldest native Welsh castles, overlook the body of water. The scenery is gorgeous and mountainous, and the lake is the sixth deepest across the country, being home to a fish left behind from the ice age, the Arctic char. As part of Padarn Country Park, the lake is home to various exciting activities and attractions, such as wild swimming.
The incredible lakes in North Wales are just the tip of the iceberg. If you’re intrigued by what North Wales has to offer, enquire about our Welsh holiday parks here.
Allens Caravans Estates Ltd is registered in England and Wales - Reg No. 525635
