Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve
Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve
Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
264 reviews
Excellent
251
Very good
11
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
0
Carol and Ray L
Lancaster, PA246 contributions
Jun 2022
What a beautiful beautiful hike. We were a group of 8, including girls ages 10 and 12, and 2 seniors in their early 70's. Fortunately, we had absolutely gorgeous weather. The walk up the stone path was fairly easy walking. We walked the whole way around the lake and the views were breathtaking and the hike was peaceful. It was the type of hike where you wanted to stop frequently just to take pictures, but it was impossible to capture it all. Our hike was in the morning and we easily found a parking spot by the hostel/cafe and there were some people on the trail, but it was definitely not crowded. It was a perfect hike and we would highly recommend it to anyone.
Written July 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kja1987
Rotherham, UK83 contributions
Feb 2023 • Family
Definitely recommend this walk, especially if you're after something relatively easy without compromising on views and scenery. Car park £3 for 4 hours, little takeaway cafe with hot drinks, ive crsams and a few snacks, card payments only, free toilets. We managed to get from the car park to the nature reserve with 2 children aged 8 and 13 in about 20 minutes, quite wibdy at the top though so dress appropriately ideally with walking boots and a hooded top.
Written February 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Corrine R
Clovis, NM974 contributions
Sep 2020
This is probably one of my favorite top 5 places in Snowdonia. There's a fairy tale type feel to the place that makes it fun to walk. We did the entire walk loop around the lake that is littered with waterfalls, cute rock and wood bridges, amazing mountain views, a few cattle and some mini ponies -that are friendly and allow you to pet them. The side of the lake closest to the visitor center is actually a very nice sandy beach. There's a photo op every few feet. The walk is long, maybe took us about a hour and a half, but we stopped for photo's and the ponies for awhile. And although this length might be long for some it's an easy rather level trail. It's stunning and a must do for this region!
And beware.. The parking here is inefficient for the trails attraction, proximity to other trail heads, and bathroom facilities. So many people are trying to park in what I saw them only having about 20 spots?
And beware.. The parking here is inefficient for the trails attraction, proximity to other trail heads, and bathroom facilities. So many people are trying to park in what I saw them only having about 20 spots?
Written June 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carla W
4 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
To be honest we only ended up at this campsite as all the others were booked up, we don’t even like wine...
We arrived at the campsite in our campervan and our pitch was clearly sign posted. The pitch itself was huge and in the corner which was the most private pitch out of the bunch but on a slant however great for our dog to roam.
We went to let someone know we had arrived in the wine bar to which the lady was very rude and blunt, telling us absolutely nothing about where anything was.
After exploring the facilities ourselves there was a fresh water tap and a single toilet 10 metres away however the toilet was left with no toilet paper. There is only one shower which is ridiculously hot and let’s no air in - you have to pay 50p for use of the hot water and have to book what time you want to use it which they claim is to let it air out however I never saw it ‘airing out’ as the door was always shut. There was a tiny dry room to dry clothes which was handy if it wasn’t full. There were 2 more toilets and 1 sink to wash up in the main building
It’s not the worst camp site I’ve been to, the people could just be a lot more welcoming if you ask me!
The coast is about a 20 minute drive from here with some beautiful beaches and plenty of little towns and castles to explore, can’t fault the area, just 5 minutes outside the campsite is the snooty fox dining barn and the dining tipis with lots of activities for all and amazing food - this is a must!
We arrived at the campsite in our campervan and our pitch was clearly sign posted. The pitch itself was huge and in the corner which was the most private pitch out of the bunch but on a slant however great for our dog to roam.
We went to let someone know we had arrived in the wine bar to which the lady was very rude and blunt, telling us absolutely nothing about where anything was.
After exploring the facilities ourselves there was a fresh water tap and a single toilet 10 metres away however the toilet was left with no toilet paper. There is only one shower which is ridiculously hot and let’s no air in - you have to pay 50p for use of the hot water and have to book what time you want to use it which they claim is to let it air out however I never saw it ‘airing out’ as the door was always shut. There was a tiny dry room to dry clothes which was handy if it wasn’t full. There were 2 more toilets and 1 sink to wash up in the main building
It’s not the worst camp site I’ve been to, the people could just be a lot more welcoming if you ask me!
The coast is about a 20 minute drive from here with some beautiful beaches and plenty of little towns and castles to explore, can’t fault the area, just 5 minutes outside the campsite is the snooty fox dining barn and the dining tipis with lots of activities for all and amazing food - this is a must!
Written June 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
revolutionfrommybed
West Midlands, UK306 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
Unfortunately the weather was dreadful when we visited. It was raining and it was windy so it felt like the rain was coming from all sides.
Nevertheless, we had a great time! We visited with a 4 year old and I had our infant in the carrier (meaning I couldn't see my feet which is something I have to take into consideration when choosing a walk).
The car park was £3 and you can pay by card. There's a little kiosk building where you can buy snacks and there are toilets too.
The walk up to the lake is incredibly beautiful (and I see that despite the fact that we had about 5% visibility because of the weather). It took us about 30min to get to the lake. Up there it was so windy that our 4 year old struggled to walk so we turned around. Obviously that's when it cleared up a bit.
It's a beautiful walk and we will definitely be back when the weather is a bit nicer. I can only imagine how stunning it must be with a bit of sunlight.
Nevertheless, we had a great time! We visited with a 4 year old and I had our infant in the carrier (meaning I couldn't see my feet which is something I have to take into consideration when choosing a walk).
The car park was £3 and you can pay by card. There's a little kiosk building where you can buy snacks and there are toilets too.
The walk up to the lake is incredibly beautiful (and I see that despite the fact that we had about 5% visibility because of the weather). It took us about 30min to get to the lake. Up there it was so windy that our 4 year old struggled to walk so we turned around. Obviously that's when it cleared up a bit.
It's a beautiful walk and we will definitely be back when the weather is a bit nicer. I can only imagine how stunning it must be with a bit of sunlight.
Written June 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kazzy73
111 contributions
Sep 2021 • Family
we arrived here later than expected it was gone 12 but still managed find a parking space we set off up towards the lake and thought it was going to be gruelling from how steep the walk started, but it wasn't it was easy walk for us . people not used to walking any distance etc might find it hard but not us we are regular hikers. still the scenery and lake is beautiful ! did go with the hope to wild swim but the weather wasn't great it was quite chilly. however we had a great day walked all around and our dog loved it. we are camping near by next summer so will visit again. the bonus for us is its not crowded like snowdon it was just so peaceful.
Written September 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty262
10 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
Absolutely stunning place would recommend it 100% however, the walk is hard going and you need good footwear (much of it is bog and will be all year round and some parts are very rocky). If you have a dog I wouldn’t really recommend it either. Signs ask for dogs to be kept on leads at all times (fair enough there is some livestock) however there are styles which are not at all dog friendly (we had to lift our Springer over them) and one section is completely eroded and required a bit of rock climbing, not ideal. Part of the walk around one of the lakes involves walking alongside the busy road (if you want to do the circular route). The walk on the other side of the road is very hard work up and down and it’s not for everyone. Having said all that the scenery is amazing and we even got to see a couple of fighter planes fly through on exercise.
Written June 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gardenerrich
Sandown, UK243 contributions
Jun 2021
We often walk up through here and around the lake, but decided to venture up a bit this time.
Walked clockwise round and took the higher path at far end, over a bridge by a spectacular waterfall.
We carried on and walked up the devils chimney, which can be a bit challenging at times, and onto the top, but strong winds forced us to return the same way.
Well worth the effort of a bit of scrambling over the rocks where the “steps” have moved.
Walked clockwise round and took the higher path at far end, over a bridge by a spectacular waterfall.
We carried on and walked up the devils chimney, which can be a bit challenging at times, and onto the top, but strong winds forced us to return the same way.
Well worth the effort of a bit of scrambling over the rocks where the “steps” have moved.
Written June 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tara37
North East105 contributions
Jun 2021
Had a lovely walk here with our 7, 5 and 1.5 yr old. We walked the 3 mile walk up and around the reservoir. I think the description said strenuous - wouldn't class it as strenuous at all although we are an active family. We had a paddle - quite chilly but nice. We parked at the bottom and paid about £4 (I think) for 4 hours. We all enjoyed the walk and picnic. Loos and a little take away cafe at the car park selling pasties and sausage rolls and some cakes. Would recommend
Written July 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pfefmeister
San Francisco, CA2,799 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Thoroughly enjoyed this moderate hike up to and around the lake. Careful on the footing as the rock path is uneven and easy to twist an ankle. Splendid views with every step. I’m guessing 5 miles round trip from the small parking area next to the hostel where the hike begins. Definitely well worth the effort and maybe 30 minutes from Conwy.
Written May 22, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anna-Maria O
Connah's Quay, UK399 contributions
How much is the car park please?? Also will this postcode LL573LZ Wales from TripAdvisor get me there? Thanks in advance for replies x
John262014
London, UK112 contributions
I don't know the car park charges but be wary of parking on the A5 as they will fine you. The place is easy to find on the A5 about 3miles outside Bethesda in direction of Betws y Coed. Enjoy
Asmaa L
2 contributions
How long does it take to do?
Stephen R
Beverley, UK277 contributions
I think that other answers given to the question are spot on. There are a lot of 'it depends'! - walking speed, experience, stops and starts etc. In addition , your actual route is crucial. The lower route is probably about an hour with the higher route taking nearer two for most walkers.
Stufest
Great Yarmouth, UK169 contributions
Is this an OK route to do in January? Not a hugely experienced hill walker but I'm in decent health.
PaulDrewsterDrew
Wales, UK283 contributions
Yes no problem at all. There are a number of walks you can do, as you will see when you visit here. You can walk the circumference of Llyn Idwel as there is a path all round the lake and if your feeling adventurous, you can take a number of routes up to the Glyders and Tryfan. It’s a beautiful and magical place of which I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
Kelly Edwards
1 contribution
Why is this listing in Bangor? I think that is a tad misleading and a bit further out. Maybe this should be changed?
luc4books
Elmhurst, Illinois, United States12 contributions
This is the actual address for the Lake, "Llyn Idwal, Bangor LL57 3LZ, UK".
It's actually easy to get there by Car from Caernarfon, Bangor, Conwy, Llandudno,
or Betws-y-Coed.
GeographicAli
Viera, FL
Can we get there from Bangor without a car?
Joanne P
Church Gresley, UK486 contributions
No it's out in the sticks!
esutton2015
Halstead, UK6 contributions
Would an elderly lady with a stick be able to make it just to the lake to see the view from there?
Ste@Osw
Oswestry, UK178 contributions
I would not advise that you try for Ideal. That doesn't stop you enjoying the wonderful views around Llyn Ogden which doesn't involve climbing and the views while driving to and from are fantastic. If you're looking for for something more adventurous with great views and no climbing try Zip Velocity on the way to Bangor from the lake. You're definitely not too old for that. I hope that this helps and that you have a great time.
Mariam K
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates144 contributions
Is there a specific operating hours for this destination? It seems that we will be visiting this place from around 7:30pm-9pm end of July. Sun will be down at 9:20 pm but wondering if it will be safe to stay there that late?
DarrenDring
Nottingham, UK100 contributions
No operating hours and you can go when you like. No dangerous animals or anything like that there and usually just friendly hill walkers
Is there open water swimming?
Verybusyteacher
Nottingham, UK39 contributions
Not sure about the open water swimming. It might be best to ask at the visitor centre or the National Park.
BurntwoodTeach
burntwood4 contributions
Hi. Love doing a waterfall walk. Ziplining(hopefully) in Bethesda on Saturday morning so this would be a good afternoon walk if you could tell me where?!?
thanks
Carugarlic
Anglesey, UK72 contributions
Ideal! Once u get out of zip wire centre and back onto main road ( little town of bethesda on your left) turn right. Around 5-10 mins of a scenic drive, then just before a lake on your left there is a car park and visitor centre on right. If no parking , di like everyone else does and park on road or in a car park higher up. Zip people can direct you un sure. Also a nice place for a lunch snack - Fitzpatrick cafe in bethesda- green cafe opposite spar. The walk will be Lovley to llyn Idwal as there is snow visible. All the best
GNGCwmIdwal
Bethesda, UK
Hi, anyone know who manages the Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve page? would like to contribute.
Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve (Bethesda) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve
- Hotels near Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve:
- (0.90 mi) YHA Idwal Cottage
- (4.13 mi) Plas Coch Guest House
- (4.14 mi) Glyn Afon Guesthouse
- (4.00 mi) Dolafon Guest House
- (4.28 mi) Beech Bank Bed & Breakfast
- Restaurants near Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve:
- (4.01 mi) Pen-y-Ceunant Isaf Tea House
- (4.07 mi) 1085 Bistro
- (5.42 mi) Caffi Gwynant
- (4.10 mi) The Peak Restaurant
- (4.02 mi) Llygad yr Haul
Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve Information
Excellent Reviews | 250 |
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Very Good Reviews | 11 |
Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve Photos | 280 |