Llyn Ogwen circular walk
Experience great views of Tryfan and the Glyderau mountains without committing to a strenuous hike up to the summits. Please note that the first half of the walk can be very wet and boggy, (especially in winter), whilst the second half returns along the main road.
Last resting place of Excalibur
Legends say that Bedwyr Bedrynant, a knight of King Arthur cast the famous sword Excalibur into the lake at Llyn Ogwen, where it remains to this day.
Map
Start:
Ogwen Cottage and Ranger Base, grid ref: SH 650603
1
From Ogwen Cottage, cross the main road and turn left, cross the bridge then turn right over the stile (gap in the wall).
2
Follow the river upstream to the lake by clambering over the large boulders, which can be quite challenging. It can be easy to lose the path here but keep heading for the lake and the path will become clearer with occasional way-markers.
Pont Pen-y-benglog
Look under the modern road-bridge to see the Drover’s bridge underneath, known as Hen Bont Pen y Benglog.
3
Follow the lake-shore and the way-markers for ½ a mile before climbing a slight hill away from the lake, cross the stile and continue.
Pill box
Built during the Second World War to defend the A5 in case of an invasion. There are several other defences in the valley, can you spot them?
4
As you approach the farmhouse at the end of the lake, cross another stile then bear left towards the footbridge and follow the upper path which avoids the farmyard then crosses a stile before dropping down to join the farm-track.
5
Follow this track away from the farmhouse until you reach the main road. Turn right and follow the pavement along the lake shore back to Ogwen Cottage.
End:
Ogwen Cottage and Ranger Base, grid ref: SH 650603
