Cwm Idwal is a special place. The spectacular scenery comprises high crags, screes, moraines and rounded rocks with a lake (Llyn Idwal) on its floor. the folds and faults are the direct result of the tumultuous forces that created these features more than 450 million years ago.

The more recent Ice Age sculpted and gouged their cliffs and ridges, as well as the great amphitheater of Cwm Idwal itself. It’s one of the best examples of a glacial valley in Wales, so it attracts geologists, mountaineers, groups of students, and botanists. It’s also an accessible and popular visitor destination, so it can get busy.

Llyn (lake) Idwal is a great natural amphitheater that can act as a gigantic mirror. If you get lucky you can see perfect reflections like this of Pen yr Ole Wen on the left and the mighty Tryfan on the right.

Llyn Idwal is approximately 800m long by 300m wide and it covers 28 acres. It is named after Prince Idwal Foel, a grandson of Rhodri Mawr, one of the ancient Kings of Wales. Legend states that the prince was murdered by being drowned in the lake. In fact Idwal Foel died in battle against the Saxons in 942 and he was cremated beside the lake, as was the burial custom for Celtic nobility.

Llyn Idwal is easily accessible on foot via a 900-metre long stone-paved path from Ogwen Cottage on the main A5 road. Another path encircles the lake. Two paths lead from opposite sides of the lake to the top of the ridge close to the Twll Du (Devil's Kitchen), but these paths become rather steep in places. They lead to Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr.

There is a small pebble beach at the northwest edge of Llyn Idwal from which you see hardy and brave swimmers take the plunge. The water is crystal clear and gorgeous. But it’s a mountain lake so it’s also cold. If you are going to swim, please be fully prepared and don’t take any unnecessary risks.