Lake Vyrnwy, SY10 0LZ
Just on the edge of The Snowdonia National Park, Lake Vyrnwy is set amidst the remote and beautiful Berwyn Mountains. With spectacular waterfalls, and unspoilt open countryside, a visit to Lake Vyrnwy is a wonderful day out.
At Lake Vyrnwy you can experience the walks and trails of the 24,000 acre RSPB Reserve, with viewpoints and hides around the Lake to observe the amazing variety of birds and scenery. You can walk through the visionary Sculpture Park below the Dam.
The history of how the dam was built and the reservoir created is well worth a read. Where the lake is now, there was originally a farming village. https://www.lake-vyrnwy.com/history.html
There are plenty of activities too, including boating, and hire of kayaks and paddle boards, adventure activities, cycle hire, walking and horse trails.
There are places to eat and get a drink. A chocolate cabin with all food and drink chocolatey recently opened - April 2024.
At the far end of the lake is a beautiful walk to a waterfall. This spectacular waterfall, one of the hidden gems of Wales, gushes down the heather clad slopes of the valley, commonly known as Rhiwargor Waterfall. About a 2mile walk from the carpark duration about 1 hr. https://www.farmhouseinwales.com/rhiwargor-waterfall-walk-at-lake-vyrnwy/
Child friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Website: www.lake-vyrnwy.com
Distance: 16 miles (40 minutes)
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, SY10 0BZ
Pistyll Rhaeadr is an enchanting waterfall in the Berwyn Mountains, just near Llanrhaeadr-Ym- Mochnant. At 240ft (80m) high it is Britain's tallest single-drop waterfall, captivating all who visit her. Generation after generation take in the atmosphere and presence of this special place. Many mention how quickly they find peace and tranquility within themselves, an escape from busy day-to-day life.
A short walk from the car park through the gate takes you to the base of the waterfall. Here there is an iron bridge crossing the river which takes you over to the woodland walks and public footpath.
If you want to venture on a long walk there is a clear path that takes you to the top of the waterfall. The views from the top of the waterfall are spectacular and anyone awarded by getting to the top gets views of the whole valley.
It's a great place to explore the Berwyn Mountains and surrounding hills, with many walks to suit a variety of walkers. This link highlights four route options.
Child friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Website: http://www.pistyllrhaeadr.co.uk/
Distance: 7miles (20 minutes)
Bustling Welsh Town of Llangollen, LL20 8NU
Renowned for the surrounding hills and the River Dee, Llangollen has something for every visitor.
There are an astonishing range of cafés, bars & restaurants to suit all visitors.
This small town has a wealth of independent shops to browse and many charming places to visit.
White water rafting is certainly worth a try if you’re brave enough. Various other activities are also available around the River Dee, on offer from several outdoor pursuit providers.
If you just want to relax, let the steam train take the strain and ride on the steam railway with luxury dining experiences.
Experience peace and tranquility, gliding along the canal on a horse-drawn boat. Llangollen is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site along eleven miles of canal from Gledrid to the Horseshoe Falls via the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. https://www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk/attraction/horseshoe-falls/
Walkers love Llangollen, and not just for the dramatic scenery offered along this stretch of the River Dee and the surrounding area. The famous Offa’s Dyke Path runs through this part of Wales too. A walk not to be missed, perched high above the town of Llangollen, Castell Dinas Bran is a walk to a ruined medieval castle with a rich history. A magnificent 13th Century ruin, with breathtaking views.
Visit Plas Newydd House Museum and Gardens. This 14th century house boasts Regency and Victorian décor, along with Gothic touches and stunning gardens.
Child friendly: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes
Website: https://www.llangollen.org.uk/
Distance: 12miles (35minutes)