Why lap the track when you can trail a beautiful valley where the edge of the forest meets the lower slopes of the Carneddau mountains? Llyn Crafnant gives the term beautiful walk a whole new meaning.
“Llyn” is Welsh for lake, but Llyn Crafnant is actually a reservoir — once upon a time, Llyn Crafnant was the water supply for the nearby town of Llanrwst. Now, it’s just a great destination for walkers and tourists alike to experience Wales.
Can You Walk Around Llyn Crafnant?
Yes! The good news is that you can walk around Llyn Crafnant.
Llyn Crafnant is three quarters of a mile long and the view from the head of the lake over the water to the mountains is one of the best you’ll find in North Wales.
How Many Routes Are There?
There are three way waymarked walks around (or from) Llyn Crafnant that set off from the car park. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an accessible trail along the riverside, and a 5-mile trail that takes you to the beautiful lakes of Geirionydd and Crafnant.
The most popular is the Llyn Crafnant Circuit, where you can take in the view across the lake to the crags at the head of the Crafnant Valley.
How Long Is the Walk?
The Crafnant Circuit is around 3.25 miles, or 5 kilometres. This circular route follows a mixture of wide tracks, tarmac and forest roads, with some rougher sections alongside the lake.
Is the Walk Difficult?
No, it’s an easy walk, and is also one of the most accessible in North Wales. If you’re looking for a harder climb, you can opt to take the Crafnant View trail. This is a moderate trail — a combination of forest roads, tarmac road, and a steep narrow footpath — that isn’t accessible, but offers amazing panoramic views across the Crafnant Valley.
Apart from the occasional bird, the stillness is a pleasant contrast to the buzz around the lake on a busy day.
How long does it take?
The Crafnant Circuit will take around 1-2 hours. There are picnic benches along the route, so it will really depend on how long you want to spend enjoying a home-packed lunch by the reservoir. The Crafnant View trail will take closer to 2-3 hours.