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Llyn y Gadair

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Mountain, Valley, Lakeside

Swimming, Walking

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Michael Graham via Geograph.org.uk

Llyn y Gadair is a lake in a rocky hollow below the summit of Cadair Idris in Snowdonia, on the northern side of the mountain. It sits along the Pony Path, one of the main routes to the top, in a bowl beneath steep crags, and is a favourite spot for a rest or a wild camp on the way up. Its water is ...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

6 day, 4 overnight

The Tyn-y-Cornel Hotel – Tal-y-llyn, Popty'R Dref​, The Cross Keys Inn, 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 y Gadair?
Gwynedd contains this high mountain pool, resting deep within a dramatic cwm in North Wales. Walkers discover the water sitting directly beneath the imposing cliffs of Cadair Idris after ascending the steep regional paths.

What type of place is Llyn y Gadair?
Llyn y Gadair is a wild swimming spot in the Eryri National Park in North Wales.

When is the best time to visit Llyn y Gadair?
Spring to autumn offers the most reliable weather window for trekking up the high trails. Bright autumn mornings ensure excellent atmospheric clarity and guarantee that people avoid the busier summer crowds.

What can you do at Llyn y Gadair?
Swimming in the icy mountain water provides an incredible rush, though a proper thick neoprene wetsuit helps with prolonged immersion. Hikers also enjoy walking along the rugged shoreline of grey scree or checking out the neighbouring pool of Llyn Gafr.

How long should I spend at Llyn y Gadair?
Allowing roughly two hours gives ample time to enjoy a refreshing dip and rest on the rocky edge. Packing a flask of hot tea suits anyone who wants to sit back and watch the early morning mist rise from the dark surface.

Where do I park at Llyn y Gadair?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist near the trailhead, dividing into six day and rolls of four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Llyn y Gadair?
The Tyn-y-Cornel Hotel - Tal-y-llyn, Popty'R Dref, and The Cross Keys Inn, Dolgellau provide three places to grab a bite to eat nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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