The Best Wild Swimming Spots in Snowdonia!
Ready to make a splash and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Snowdonia? You've come to the right place.
Welcome to my guide to the best wild swimming spots in Snowdonia National Park.
Grab your swimsuit, pack your towel, and let's dive right in…
Llyn Padarn, Llanberis
what3words: ///plus.chitchat.trudges
No wild swimming list in Snowdonia would be complete without mentioning Llyn Padarn, a breathtakingly beautiful lake located in the vibrant village of Llanberis.
From the village, follow the signs to the Padarn Country Park, where you'll find ample parking near the lake's shore. With its crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views, Llyn Padarn offers a serene and invigorating swimming experience.
The southern shoreline has lots of picturesque picnic spots and easy entry points to this idyllic lake in Snowdonia.
Plus the iconic Lonely Tree is found here. Grab your camera - you’re going to want to take a snap of this photogenic spot.
Take a dip, swim alongside majestic swans, and revel in the magic of this iconic location.
Why not hire a kayak before or after your swim (one of my favourite adventure activities in Snowdonia!) or enjoy the surrounding views of the Llyn Padarn Circular Walk.
Watkin Pools, The Watkin Path
what3words: ///greeting.shrimps.chugging
Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, The Watkin Pools are a hidden gem that beckons adventurers seeking an untouched wild swimming experience. As one of my favourite waterfall walks in North Wales, The Watkin Pools should be on every adventure Bucket List!
Located at the base of the Watkin Path, which offers a challenging yet rewarding hike up Snowdon, these pools provide a refreshing and revitalizing escape.
Park up at the Pont Bethania Car Park (£3 for 4 hours). The Watkin Pools can then be found just a 20 minute stroll up the Watkin Path.
The journey to Watkin Pools is as much a part of the adventure as the swim itself. After a scenic hike through enchanting woodlands and alongside cascading waterfalls, swimmers are rewarded with the sight of pristine turquoise waters cradled by rugged mountain terrain.
The pools' cool, inviting waters offer an exhilarating swim, making it a perfect reward for those who dare to take the road less traveled.
Llyn Cau, Cadair Idris
what3words: ///lighter.veto.unloads
Tucked away within the dramatic Cwm Cau cirque, Llyn Cau is a glacial lake that enchants wild swimmers with its otherworldly beauty.
Accessible via the challenging Minffordd Path, the lake's remote location adds to its allure. This is one of my favourite mountain walks in North Wales. Pack a picnic and your swimsuit and enjoy a wild swim after reaching the summit of one of the highest peaks in Wales.
Encircled by steep slopes and the formidable Cadair Idris mountain, Llyn Cau feels like a hidden oasis untouched by time.
The lake's waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a mesmerizing mirror-like surface that shimmers under the changing sky.
Brave swimmers who take the plunge are rewarded with an invigorating swim in the midst of untouched nature, surrounded by the echoes of ancient Welsh legends that whisper through the mountain breeze.
Llyn Idwal, Pont Pen-y-Benglog
what3words: ///disprove.braked.archives
Nestled within the rugged Ogwen Valley of Snowdonia, Llyn Idwal is a tranquil haven for wild swimmers seeking both serenity and adventure.
Its accessible location makes it a popular choice for those wanting to dip their toes into the world of wild swimming. As part of the Idwal Nature Reserve, the lake is embraced by soaring rock formations and lush greenery, creating a captivating contrast against the crystalline waters.
A refreshing dip in Llyn Idwal is the best way to cool down after hiking up Y Garn!
Swimmers can choose to glide through the refreshing lake or explore the nooks and crannies along its shoreline.
The enchanting ambiance of Llyn Idwal, coupled with its proximity to other outdoor activities, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation and exploration.
Fairy Glen, Betws-y-Coed
what3words: ///darker.punch.hardback
Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, Fairy Glen is a hidden gem that will transport you to a fairytale realm.
To get there, make your way to the enchanting village of Betws-y-Coed and follow the signs to the A5. Look out for a small car park on your left-hand side, just after crossing the river bridge.
From here, it's a short and scenic walk along the riverbank until you stumble upon these magical cascading pools.
Photographs just don’t do it justice - the magic of Fairy Glen has to be seen to be believed!
NB: There is a small charge of £1 per vehicle.
Blue Lake, Fairbourne
what3words: ///suitably.shows.reactions
Venture to the coastal fringes of Snowdonia and discover the hidden gem known as the Blue Lake, near the village of Fairbourne.
Head towards Fairbourne on the A493 road. Then take the footpath leading from Ffordd Panteinion (LL38 2TJ), opposite the Texico garage. The footpath can be found, through a kissing gate, 500m from the junction.
Keep climbing up the steep path before taking a right underneath a slate archway. The path then opens up, continues underneath another slate archway and a short, low tunnel, before arriving at The Blue Lake.
The lake is on private land, but has been a popular swimming spot for years.
The Blue Lake is renowned for its vivid blue hues and tranquil atmosphere. Immerse yourself in its refreshing waters, soak up the surrounding natural beauty, and let the worries of the world float away.
UPDATE: The entrance to the Blue Lake has been blocked. And swimming is now prohibited.
Llyn Dinas, Beddgelert
what3words: ///flags.royal.remembers
For a truly awe-inspiring wild swimming experience in Snowdonia, head to Llyn Dinas, near the picturesque village of Beddgelert.
Make your way to the A498 road, between Beddgelert and Pen-y-Gwryd. Look out for the parking area near the lake, where you can leave your car and take a leisurely stroll to the water's edge.
Llyn Dinas is known for its tranquil ambiance, surrounded by lush forests and with the mighty Snowdon as a breathtaking backdrop.
Take a dip in its refreshing waters and let the beauty of this place wash over you.
And there we have it - a list of the best places to go wild swimming in Snowdonia!
Am I missing any? Let me know in the comment section below ↓
Looking for a way to remember your trip to Snowdonia? Check out my adventure prints over on the My Mountains and Me Shop!
