Cwm Bychan

CWM BYCHAN

Mountain walk from Llyn Dinas

It is possible to walk up to Cwm Bychan from both Nantmor and Llyn Dinas or to undertake a circular route encompassing Beddgelert and the Aberglaslyn Gorge. Check out our Cwm Bychan page for the trail from Nantmor. The route from Llyn Dinas is shorter but steeper. However, it isn’t overly arduous and is a great option if you only half half a day to explore the area.

This trail is generally surprisingly quiet, given that it is so close to the main road and you can park free of charge. Perhaps it is the relatively steep ascent which keeps people away!

Duration: 2 hours from the car park to the summit and back with a stop for lunch.

Terrain: Stone steps, gravel paths and heathland.

Llyn Dinas from Cwm Bychan

Starting Out

This walk begins on the shores of the beautiful Llyn Dinas. From the parking area on the A487, walk through the gate and onto the path which wends its way around the lake. follow the path as it bears right and then cross the bridge over the river. Turn left, pass through the next gate and you will see the trail to Cwm Bychan heading up and to your right.

The first section of the trail is a series of stone steps which provide a steep ascent. It isn’t long before you are looking down on the lake from a considerable height. After a steep climb, you reach a flatter area which provide a little respite before the track becomes steeper again.  There’s a pretty stream tumbling down the mountain close to the trail and you can’t help marvelling at the peaks rising up around you.

Llyn Dinas
Cwn Bychan

The High Point

The final portion of the trail isn’t too arduous and before you know it, you will see the ladder stile leading to the trail which takes you down the other side of the mountain to the Nantmor car park. There are amazing views across the valley from Cwm Bychan and it is worth spending a little time at the high point of the route.

You can then choose to climb over the stile and walk down to Nantmor, retrace your steps to the lake or branch off the path back to Llyn Dinas and walk to Beddgelert. All of the trails are extremely enjoyable and deliver a variety of gorgeous vistas. None are overly challenging but provide plenty of interest along the way.

A Small Detour

On  your way back to the lake, consider taking a small detour. Just after the signpost for Beddgelert on your return, clamber up the ridge to your left and you will be rewarded with fabulous views  of the valley below and the village of Beddgelert. You will also discover the best views of Llyn Dinas from this area.

You can now enjoy an undemanding walk back down the mountain and the lake awaits you, reflecting the mountains on a sunny day. Dogs will enjoy paddling or swimming after a vigorous walk and there are two small beaches on the shore which afford easy access to the water. If time is on your side, take a stroll around the lake before you leave. It is an easy but pleasant walk courtesy of a new pathway which largely clings to the shoreline.

Llyn Dinas is one of my favourite places to spend a morning, afternoon or evening. From dawn until dusk, it is a beautiful location with something for everyone.

Cwnm Bychan

Directions

From the Woollen Mill, Drive to Penygroes and then turn right at the COOP store. Turn right at the next T Junction and then right again at the next T Junction. Follow this road past Nantlle and up into the mountains. You will eventually arrive at the Village of Rhyd DDu where you should turn right towards Beddgelert. When you arrive in Beddgelert, drive straight on and not over the stone bridge. After passing the Sygun Copper mine, drive for roughly one mile and look out for the parking areas on the side of the road just as the lake comes into view.