North Wales is renowned for its areas of outstanding natural beauty, which are made up of woodlands, mountains, lakes and stunning coastal settings, all of which make for absolutely breathtaking walking routes. 

It is the lake walks in North Wales that we are specifically going to be focusing on in this blog post, providing our dear readers with a full list of what we consider to be the best lake walks in North Wales based on our own personal experiences.

We’ve tried to take account of all kinds of holiday makers here, with shorter routes for those who struggle to complete long distances, and longer routes for those who are looking to have a real challenge. 

1. Bala Lake Walk

Located roughly a one hour drive away from Bryn Defaid Holiday Park is the truly breathtaking Bala Lake. Otherwise known as Llyn Tegid in Welsh, a full circular walk around Bala Lake covers a rather daunting 14 miles. However, there are plenty of other short walks available for those who aren’t quite ready to cover such distances. 

One other option is the Bala town, river and lake path which covers just 2 miles. This walk commences from the shores of the lake, then along the Dyfrdwy riverbanks before taking to the quirky streets in Bala town centre. Here you will find plenty of facilities for a welcome break including Y Tebot Bach Tea Rooms who serve a delightful range of cakes, sandwiches and more substantial freshly cooked meals for those with a real appetite. 

2. Llyn Idwal Lake Walk

Llyn Idwal is a small lake set amidst the mountains of Snowdonia which is named after Prince Idwal Foel, a grandson of one of the ancient Kings of Wales, Rhodri Mawr. The tale goes that the King's grandson was murdered by being drowned in this very lake. 

Despite this rather bleak history, the lake itself is exceptionally beautiful being surrounded by rugged mountains and affording stunning views of the Glyderau mountains. 

The most popular circular walking route covers a total distance of 2.5 miles and commences from the National Trust owned Ogwen Cottage. From here you should follow the popular path around the outskirts of the lake where you will pass by dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs and wonderful waterfalls.

3. Llyn Padarn Lake Walk

This is definitely one of the most beautiful lake walks in North Wales, taking in the serene Llyn Padarn and whimsical woodland of Padarn Country Park.

The 5.5 mile circular walking route around the lake starts in Llanberis and takes walkers around the lakes edge taking in Padarn Country Park, the Llyn Padarn miniature steam railway and providing great views of the nearby Dolbadarn Castle.

All of this is set amidst the backdrop of the mountains of Snowdonia, with the lake itself also serving as a popular water sports destination with kayaking and paddleboarding being two of the most common activities here. 

4. Ogwen Valley Walk

Nestled between the Carneddau and Glyderau mountain ranges, Ogwen Lake is a great spot for a moderate, scenic walk. In total, this circular route around Ogwen Lake covers 3 miles in distance starting from Ogwen Visitor Centre.

From here you should follow the loop around the outside of the lake where you can admire beautiful views of the towering peaks and waterfalls which characterise the region. 

If you want to give yourself a bit more of a challenge, then you may want to alter your route to take in the nearby Devil’s Kitchen which is one of the most popular hiking spots in the area. This is called Devil’s Kitchen on account of black rock formations and the plumes of smoke which regularly rise from the crack in the rocks. It is as challenging as it looks, so should only be taken on by those who are in good physical condition.

5. Llyn Gwynant Lake Walk

Llyn Gwynant is something of a hidden gem and one of the quieter lake walks in North Wales. Situated near Beddgelert and lying on the River Glaslyn, walkers taking on the 4 mile circular walk can enjoy views of the lush valleys and mountains which characterise the Snowdonia National Park region. 

The tranquillity afforded here also makes it a great spot for wildlife spotting with the area filled with sheep, cows, badgers, otters, foxes and much more.  

If you are looking to make a real day of it, then you may want to take a picnic along with you which can be prepared using the self catering amenities in your Bryn Defaid holiday accommodation. Alternatively if you don’t want to be carrying your lunch with you, you can head to the exceptional Caffi Gwynant which has an eclectic menu made up of pizzas, burgers, chips and unusual but amazing combinations such as their beef wellington toastie.