Discover the Serene Beauty of Llyn Ogwen
Explore the breathtaking Llyn Ogwen in Snowdonia, a tranquil lake surrounded by stunning mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and picturesque views.
Llyn Ogwen, nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, is a stunning glacial lake renowned for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and rich local heritage. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike, this picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.
A brief summary to Llyn Ogwen
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for stunning sunrise views over the lake.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
- Wear appropriate footwear if you're planning to hike the surrounding trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Take time to explore the local villages for a taste of Welsh culture and cuisine.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start on the A5 road, which is the main route through Gwynedd. From Bangor, take the A5 heading towards Betws-y-Coed. Continue on the A5 for approximately 10 miles. You will see signs for Llyn Ogwen as you approach the lake. There is a car park available near the lake, which is free of charge.
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Public Transport
To reach Llyn Ogwen by public transport, first take a train to Bangor Station. From Bangor, you can catch a bus (Gwynedd buses operate the service) towards Betws-y-Coed. Look for bus number 85, which stops at various locations along the A5. Inform the driver you want to get off at Llyn Ogwen. The bus fare is approximately £5-£7 one way. Ensure to check the bus timetable, as services may be limited, especially on weekends.
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Walking from Car Park
Once you have parked your car at the designated car park near Llyn Ogwen, a short walk will take you to the lakeside. Follow the path that leads from the car park to the water's edge, which takes about 5-10 minutes. This area is well-marked and easily accessible for all visitors.
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Cycling
For those who prefer cycling, you can bring your bike on the train to Bangor. From there, cycle along the A5 towards Llyn Ogwen. The journey is approximately 10 miles and is mostly downhill, making it a pleasant ride. Ensure to wear appropriate safety gear and follow local cycling regulations.
Discover more about Llyn Ogwen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walk Snowdonia
8.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Snowdonia National Park with Walk Snowdonia, your premier tour operator for outdoor adventures.
Ogwen Gatehouse
11.8 km
Historic Ogwen Gatehouse welcomes you to the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Snowdonia’s Ogwen Valley.
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
13.3 km
Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.
Pont-y-Pair Bridge
13.7 km
Historic medieval bridge with bubbling waterfall, scenic views, and rich cultural legacy in the heart of Betws-y-Coed.
GreenWood Family Park
14.2 km
Discover endless fun at GreenWood Family Park, a theme park where adventure meets nature in the heart of Wales, perfect for families and children.
Caffi Colwyn monument
14.2 km
Explore the Caffi Colwyn Monument in Beddgelert, a charming tribute to Welsh heritage amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Welsh Highland Railway - (Beddgelert, Station)
14.3 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Snowdonia aboard the historic Welsh Highland Railway, a must-visit tourist attraction for nature and history lovers.
Bedd Gelert
14.4 km
Discover Bedd Gelert, a picturesque village in Snowdonia National Park, rich in legend and natural beauty, perfect for your Welsh adventure.
Cadair Ifan Goch
14.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cadair Ifan Goch, a stunning landmark in Wales, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Eithinog North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
14.5 km
Explore the serene Eithinog Nature Reserve in Bangor, a wildlife haven offering stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and peaceful walking trails for all ages.
Garth Pier
14.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere at Garth Pier, Bangor's beloved seaside attraction perfect for all visitors seeking natural beauty.
Menai Suspension Bridge.
15.0 km
Walk across the world’s first major iron suspension bridge and soak in breathtaking views of the Menai Strait and its historic surroundings.
Ffestiniog Railway - (Blaenau Festiniog, Station)
15.1 km
Discover the enchanting Ffestiniog Railway, a historic journey through breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Snowdonia National Park.
Menai Heritage - The Menai Bridges Museum
15.4 km
Explore the Menai Bridges Museum to uncover the engineering marvels that shaped the history of Anglesey and beyond in a stunning local setting.
Cae'r Gors
15.5 km
The childhood home of Kate Roberts, Wales' 'Queen of Literature', preserved as a window into quarrying-era hardship and literary genius.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Carneddau and Glyderau
0.9 km
Explore Snowdonia’s wild heart through the majestic Carneddau and Glyderau mountains, with Ogwen Cottage as your gateway to adventure and nature’s grandeur.
Canolfan Cwm Idwal
1.0 km
Explore Snowdonia’s stunning glacial landscapes and rare alpine flora from the welcoming Canolfan Cwm Idwal visitor centre in Nant Ffrancon.
YHA Idwal Cottage
1.0 km
Historic youth hostel nestled in Nant Ffrancon valley, offering cozy stays and direct access to Snowdonia’s spectacular hiking and climbing terrain.
Cwm Idwal
2.1 km
Explore Wales’ first National Nature Reserve, where glacial landscapes, rare alpine plants, and dramatic mountain scenery converge in Snowdonia’s Cwm Idwal.
Carnedd Dafydd
2.6 km
Explore Carnedd Dafydd, Wales’ rugged Carneddau peak offering serene, challenging hikes and breathtaking highland vistas.
Moel Berfedd
4.8 km
Discover Moel Berfedd, a peaceful 482m summit in Snowdonia offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience near historic Caernarfon.
Zip World Penrhyn Quarry
6.2 km
Experience the world’s fastest zip line and thrilling mountain karting in the stunning Penrhyn Quarry, North Wales’ premier adventure destination.
Plas y Brenin - National Outdoor Centre
6.3 km
The UK’s premier National Outdoor Centre offering expert-led adventures and historic charm in the heart of Snowdonia National Park.
Snowdon Massif
7.0 km
The dramatic heart of Snowdonia, crowned by Wales’ highest peak and offering iconic mountain scenery, challenging hikes, and sweeping views across Eryri National Park.
Garnedd Ugain
7.2 km
Explore Garnedd Ugain, Wales’ rugged second-highest peak, famed for its dramatic ridges, alpine ecology, and breathtaking Snowdonia vistas.
Llanberis Station
7.3 km
Step back in time at Llanberis Station, the charming gateway to scenic steam train journeys along Snowdonia’s stunning Llyn Padarn lake.
Dolbadarn Castle
7.3 km
Explore Dolbadarn Castle, a majestic 13th-century Welsh fortress overlooking Llyn Padarn, blending rich history with breathtaking Snowdonia views.
National Slate Museum
7.3 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Wales’ slate industry in the historic workshops of the Dinorwig quarry nestled in scenic Snowdonia.
Parc Gwledig Padarn
7.3 km
A glacial lake, slate heritage, and mountain vistas converge in Snowdonia's premier country park.
Llanberis Lake Railway
7.6 km
Ride vintage steam trains along Llyn Padarn’s scenic shores, reliving Wales’ slate quarry heritage amid Snowdonia’s majestic landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Vaynol Arms
5.7 km
Traditional Welsh pub nestled in Nant Peris with hearty fare, local ales, and a cozy atmosphere at Snowdon’s doorstep.
Bwyty Blondin Restaurant
6.2 km
Casual dining with hearty breakfasts and friendly service nestled in the historic Penrhyn Quarry adventure hub.
Peak Restaurant
8.1 km
A welcoming fine dining restaurant in Llanberis serving creative British cuisine with local ingredients and panoramic Snowdonia views.
Gallt Y Glyn Hostel - Pizza a Peint
8.8 km
Cozy hostel and beloved pizza spot at Snowdon’s doorstep, blending mountain views with homemade food and warm Welsh hospitality.
Caffi Gwynant
10.5 km
Charming converted chapel café in Snowdonia serving hearty breakfasts, homemade cakes, and local delights in a warm, rustic setting.
Y Glyntwrog Inn
12.0 km
A cozy traditional Welsh pub in Llanrug serving hearty fare, real ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of the countryside.
The Old Ship
12.5 km
Traditional Welsh pub in Trefriw offering homemade food, real ales, and a cozy log fire in the heart of Snowdonia.
Gors Bach Inn
12.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and traditional cuisine in the charming heart of historic Caernarfon.
Ty'n Rhos Restaurant
12.9 km
A tranquil fine dining retreat near Caernarfon, offering exceptional Welsh cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
The Dragon Hotel and Restaurant
13.4 km
A cozy, convenient base in Betws-y-Coed offering comfortable stays, hearty breakfasts, and a unique Chinese dining experience near Snowdonia National Park.
Garden Hotel & Cantonese Restaurant
13.9 km
A family-run hotel and authentic Cantonese restaurant opposite Bangor train station, blending comfort, culture, and convenience in the town centre.
Grill Room at The Royal Oak Hotel
13.9 km
Savor modern Welsh cuisine with locally sourced flavors and expertly grilled meats in the cozy, historic setting of Betws-y-Coed’s Royal Oak Hotel.
Llugwy River Restaurant
13.9 km
A refined dining experience celebrating Welsh seasonality and local produce in the heart of Betws-y-Coed’s historic Royal Oak Hotel.
Y Stablau - Stables Bar
13.9 km
A lively bar and restaurant in Betws-y-Coed offering fresh local food, Welsh ales, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Y Bistro yn yr Hebog
14.1 km
A cozy family-run bistro in Beddgelert offering exquisite local cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Snowdonia.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ellis Brigham - Capel Curig
6.5 km
Your trusted outdoor sports outfitter in the heart of Snowdonia, offering expert gear and advice for all your mountain adventures.
Snowdon Railway Station Shop
7.7 km
Historic railway shop offering authentic Welsh souvenirs and mountain memorabilia in the heart of Llanberis at Snowdon’s base.
Snowdon Trading Post
7.7 km
Cozy gift shop in Llanberis offering Snowdonia souvenirs, outdoor gear, refreshments, and local charm near the mountain railway station.
Siop Awyr Acored The Outdoor Shop
8.1 km
Your trusted outdoor gear specialist in Llanberis, offering quality clothing and expert advice for Snowdonia adventures.
Crib Goch Outdoor Shop Llanberis
8.1 km
Your trusted outdoor gear specialist in Llanberis, offering expert advice and premium equipment for Snowdonia adventures.
Joe Brown Shop
8.1 km
Your trusted outfitter for climbing, camping, and mountain adventures at the foot of Snowdon in Llanberis.
Fandangles Gift Shop
8.1 km
Explore the enchanting Fandangles Gift Shop in Llanberis for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Wales.
The Bethlehem Shop
9.2 km
A charming rural gift shop in Tregarth offering handcrafted religious artifacts and unique cultural treasures near Bangor.
Candy Hut
13.7 km
Discover a delightful mix of American and traditional British sweets in the heart of Snowdonia at Candy Hut, Betws-y-Coed.
Craftcentre Cymru
13.8 km
Authentic Welsh knitwear and crafts in the heart of Snowdonia's most charming village.
Anna Davies (Betws-y-Coed) Ltd
13.9 km
A premier lifestyle and fashion store in Betws-y-Coed blending heritage charm with quality menswear, womenswear, homeware, and gifts.
Enchantment
13.9 km
Explore Enchantment in Bangor - your go-to boutique for unique, locally-crafted treasures and memorable gifts.
The Dead Faeries
13.9 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh treasures and festival-inspired gifts at The Dead Faeries, a charming boutique in Bangor’s Deiniol Shopping Centre.
Menai Centre
14.0 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at the Menai Centre in Bangor, where local boutiques meet high-street fashion in a lively atmosphere.
The Original Factory Shop (Bangor North Wales)
14.0 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on clothing, beauty, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Bangor’s Menai Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Y Siôr
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Experience warm Welsh hospitality and community spirit at Y Siôr, Bangor’s beloved traditional pub on Carneddi Road.
Eryri Bar & Lounge
7.5 km
A cozy bar and restaurant nestled in the Royal Victoria Hotel, offering good food and local drinks with stunning Snowdonia views.
The Heights
8.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub and bunkhouse in Llanberis offering hearty fare and a casual atmosphere for Snowdonia adventurers.
Y Ddraig
8.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and vibrant local culture at Y Ddraig, Llanberis’ beloved traditional pub with a charming courtyard.
Pont Y Pair Inn
13.7 km
Charming historic inn and pub in Betws-y-Coed offering cozy rooms, hearty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere near Snowdonia’s natural beauty.
The Castle
13.9 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub opposite Bangor Cathedral, serving classic British fare, craft ales, and live weekend entertainment.
The Mostyn Arms
14.1 km
A cozy traditional pub in Bangor offering excellent Guinness, lively sports, and a warm local atmosphere on Ambrose Street.
Prince Llewelyn Hotel
14.1 km
Charming historic hotel in Beddgelert with cozy rooms, hearty dining, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Snowdonia.
Tanronnen Inn
14.2 km
Traditional Welsh inn and pub in scenic Beddgelert, offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and warm hospitality near Snowdon.
Rascals Cafe Bar
14.3 km
Experience Bangor's lively nightlife at Rascals Cafe Bar, where friendly vibes and affordable drinks create a welcoming social hotspot.
Tafarn Y Glôb
14.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local ales at Tafarn Y Glôb, a cozy pub in the heart of Bangor, open daily from afternoon to midnight.
Bar Uno
14.4 km
Lively campus bar and café serving affordable meals, Starbucks coffee, and live sports in the heart of Bangor University’s student village.
Patricksbar.com
14.4 km
A lively, authentic Irish pub with a spacious beer garden and warm hospitality in the heart of Bangor.
Garddfon Inn
15.2 km
Historic Welsh pub and bistro on the Menai Straits offering local seafood, fine ales, sea-view rooms, and a warm family-run atmosphere.
Bridge Inn
15.2 km
A friendly and flavorful pub on Telford Road, blending Welsh tradition with diverse cuisine and quality ales.
