Llyn y Gadair

Llyn y Gadair is a lake in Snowdonia National Park (Eryri), Gwynedd, North Wales, right beside the village of Rhyd Ddu. The Welsh name translates roughly as "lake of the chair". It sits about 182 m above sea level, covers around 50 hectares and is among the easiest lakes to reach in the park's north-west corner. Do not confuse it with the lakes beneath Cadair Idris, which lie in a different part of the park far to the south.

Where is Llyn y Gadair?

The lake lies on the western edge of the Snowdon massif, east of the hill of Mynydd Mawr and close to Beddgelert Forest. Rhyd Ddu is the starting point, a small village on the road between the Snowdon area and the coast. A car park there serves most local walks. On maps and walking guides you will also see the spelling Llyn y Gader, which refers to the same water.

How do you get to the lake?

The simplest option is a short loop from the Rhyd Ddu car park. It runs for roughly 4 miles (6.5 km) and takes about two hours. The first half is nearly flat: you cross a footbridge, follow the path around the lake, then enter Beddgelert Forest. The second half includes a climb of about 150 m.

The area is also crossed by Lôn Gwyrfai, the park's official 7 km route (one way). The path crosses the lake on a causeway before heading into the forest. Group walk versions link it with the Rhyd Ddu path up Snowdon: they follow the lower section of that path, drop to the Beddgelert road and return beside the lake to the village.

What will you see at Llyn y Gadair?

The appeal is quiet mountain scenery: open water ringed by slopes, with the Snowdon ridges behind. Remains of slate quarries survive on the south-western shore, a reminder of the region's slate industry. The lake also has a place in Welsh culture, linked to the work of the poet T. H. Parry-Williams.

There are no cafés or services at the water. Bring supplies and head back to the village for food and facilities.

When should you visit?

The walk is comfortable for most of the year, since the route is easy and partly wooded. Late spring, summer and early autumn usually give the best weather and views. Conditions in Snowdonia change fast, so pack a waterproof and sturdy footwear; paths near the lake can be boggy.

Frequently asked questions

Is Llyn y Gadair the same as the lakes under Cadair Idris?

No. This lake is at Rhyd Ddu in the north of the park, while Cadair Idris is in southern Eryri.

How long does the walk around the lake take?

The popular loop from the Rhyd Ddu car park is about 4 miles and takes around two hours, including a stretch through Beddgelert Forest.

Is the route difficult?

No. The first half is flat, and the second has a single climb of around 150 m that needs no special preparation.

Are there restaurants or toilets at the lake?

No. The lake is away from buildings, so services are only available in Rhyd Ddu.