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Llyn Gafr

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Lakeside, Valley

Swimming

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Jeremy Bolwell via Geograph.org.uk

Llyn Gafr, the goat lake, is a small mountain lake on the northern side of Cadair Idris in Snowdonia. It sits on the Fox's Path, one of the steeper and looser ways up the mountain, below the larger Llyn y Gadair higher up. Most walkers pass it on the way up or down rather than making it the goal. It...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

6 day, 4 overnight

Popty'R Dref​, The Cross Keys Inn, Dolgellau​, The Royal Ship Hotel – Dolgellau

Snowdonia Snug, Abergwynant Farm, The Finest Retreats

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Llyn Gafr?
Gwynedd houses this high-altitude glacial tarn on the lower slopes of a famous mountain massif. Hikers generally stumble across the water while trekking along the main ascent paths up the rugged peaks.

What type of place is Llyn Gafr?
Llyn Gafr is a wild swimming spot in the southern area of Eryri in North Wales.

When is the best time to visit Llyn Gafr?
Spring through to autumn offers the most pleasant conditions for making the steep uphill walk. Clear days during these months guarantee the most rewarding experience before you plunge into the cold water.

What can you do at Llyn Gafr?
Swimming across the quiet, still pool allows you to take in the dramatic mountain views in complete isolation. Energetic walkers also love resting by the water edge to watch the local upland birds.

How long should I spend at Llyn Gafr?
Allowing roughly an hour gives you plenty of time to enjoy a peaceful dip and dry off afterwards. People often combine the stop with a longer mountain expedition to the summit nearby.

Where do I park at Llyn Gafr?
Vehicles can use ten spaces in the vicinity, including six day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Llyn Gafr?
Popty'R Dref, The Cross Keys Inn, Dolgellau, and The Royal Ship Hotel – Dolgellau provide three spots to grab a bite to eat nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Llyn Gafr?
Snowdonia Snug, Abergwynant Farm, and The Finest Retreats offer three choices for an overnight stay in the region. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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