Llyn y Gorlan

Llyn y Gorlan is a small upland lake in the Elenydd hills of Ceredigion, mid Wales, not far from Strata Florida. It sits at roughly 1,400 feet on the western fringe of the Cambrian Mountains and belongs to the Teifi Pools cluster. No road reaches the shore, which makes it one of the quieter corners of the group.

Where is Llyn y Gorlan?

The lake lies in eastern Ceredigion, out on open moorland at about 52.287 N, 3.780 W. The nearest villages are Pontrhydfendigaid and Ystrad Meurig, and the ruins of Strata Florida Abbey are the closest landmark. The area falls within the Elenydd SSSI, a protected upland site.

What are the Teifi Pools?

The Teifi Pools are a handful of lakes and reservoirs in remote country, partly managed by Welsh Water. The largest, Llyn Teifi, is where the River Teifi begins. Llyn Gynon is a separate lake nearby and should not be confused with Llyn y Gorlan. The pools had a reputation for trout and eels as far back as medieval times.

What makes this lake different?

Llyn y Gorlan lies east of Llyn Teifi. Unlike Llyn Teifi and Llyn Pond Gwaith, it has no dam, so its shoreline is natural. A thick stand of yellow water-lily grows along the southern edge. Nearby bogs hold round-leaved sundew, common butterwort and water lobelia. The water has the tea-brown tint typical of peaty moorland lakes.

How do you get there?

You can't drive to the lake. A narrow lane leaves the B4343 about 3 miles east of Ystrad Meurig and brings you to the pools; from there you walk. The short loop around the pools is about 2.5 miles and mostly crosses pathless ground. A longer circuit of around 6 miles starts from the Strata Florida side. To reach Llyn y Gorlan, walk round the far end of Llyn Teifi, pass a shallow boggy pond and cross a low ridge. Bring a map, waterproof boots and warm layers, because the terrain is exposed and the weather turns quickly.

Can you fish here?

Yes. The lake holds brown trout, both wild and stocked. The fishery listing gives a day ticket price of 20 pounds, with enquiries going to the Trawscoed Estate. Beyond the first gate on the access road, entry is meant for anglers holding a permit.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive to Llyn y Gorlan? No. You can drive to the edge of the Teifi Pools area, then you continue on foot across the moor.

Is Llyn y Gorlan the same as Llyn Teifi? No. Llyn Teifi is the biggest lake in the group and the source of the Teifi. Llyn y Gorlan is to its east.

Is camping allowed? Primitive camping is permitted in the wider region. Check the current rules for your exact spot before you go.

When is the best time to visit? Late spring and summer, when the ground is driest and the bog plants are in flower. Pick a clear day, since the loop is easier to follow without fog.