‘Dramatic’ mountains and a ‘breathtaking’ lake on one of the UK’s best walks

Sat in the Ogwen Valley at the northern end of the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park is an incredible National Park walk which offers “breathtaking” views. Walkers will journey three miles beneath dramatic mountains, looking out across a glacial lake which twinkles beneath the summer sunlight.

Even if you take on this walk on a cloudy day, previous visitors say it is well worth the journey.

This is Cwm Idwal, a cirque in the Glyderau range of mountains in northern Snowdonia, known for its soaring rugged mountains and impressive natural landscape. The walk has been named the “best” National Park walk in the UK, based on popularity, by holiday property managers Wheelwrights.

“The glacial valley in the Glyderau mountain range is located in the north of the Eryri National Park, and provides challenging walks with rewarding views,” said the Wheelwrights report.

“The valley was formed by ice millions of years ago and now attracts walkers, climbers and geologists all year round.

“At the base of the valley is Llyn Idwal, a beautiful lake with clear waters famous for its rock formations. Dogs are welcome on this hike too, which is always a bonus.”

National Trust describes the trail as a “moderate” walk, though say it can be “challenging” in terms of accessibility.

However, while the walk is moderately strenuous, they note that it offers “some of the most dramatic mountainous scenery in the UK” and is part of Wales‘ oldest National Nature Reserve.

At its heart is the ice-sculpted Cwm Idwal, a bowl-shaped hollow filled with crystal-clear waters. The lake is world famous, not only for its impressive backdrop but also for its ancient rock formations and rare plant life.

Taking to Tripadvisor, a visitor who completed the walk in September 2023 with family said: “Wow wow wow this place is definitely worth a visit. Amazing walk to the lake which took our breath away.

“We chose to do the lower easier walk around the lake and relaxed on the beach for lunch, even took a swim!” [SIC]

If you do plan on visiting the National Park this summer, it’s worth noting that car parking is limited and can get busy. However, there are some bus connection routes.

National Trust explained: “There are a couple of more sustainable options available with a park and ride from nearby Bethesda.

“The T10 buses run frequently between Bangor and Corwen as well as Bws Ogwen, a local electric shuttle bus, which runs regularly between Bethesda and Capel Curig.”