Llyn Brenig

I’ve driven past Llyn Brenig a number of times lately on my journey north to run parts of the Wales Coast Path. I’d never stopped there but it looked quite inviting. So, as Anna was supporting me on the first leg of the Offa’s Dyke Path at the weekend, we had planned to stop there for a late lunch on our way back.

The morning run had been successful so we set off from Bodfari in blazing sunshine at around 1:30pm.

Llyn Brenig

The sun was still shining when we arrived at the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre and it was busier than we were expecting.

Llyn Brenig

Llyn Brenig

There were people everywhere and finding somewhere to park proved difficult. We did find somewhere in the end though and headed off to explore. There are a number (6 I think) way-marked cycling trails, plenty of walks and of course wild-life galore at the lake. There are actually two lakes, the large Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir. there are parking spots all around Llyn Brenig, not just the busy one at the Visitor Centre and there is parking at Alwen Reservoir too. Some of the trails take you to both lakes.

It is clearly a popular spot. In fact it is apparently

…one of the most popular places to go walking in Conwy, North Wales. There are many walking routes to choose from, all with spectacular views. To the east, the Clwydian hills and on a clear day you can even see the sea towards Prestatyn and Gronant.

I can see why it would be so popular, especially on a day like today. The sun was glistening on the still waters of the lake while pairs of fishermen all in little boats were fly-fishing out on the lake.Most of the moorland around Llyn Brenig is in the Mynydd Hiraethog Site of Special Scientific Interest. As well as important habitats for upland species there is archaeological interest too. Bronze age main used Brenig as a burial ground constructing cairn fields. Some of the walks also take you to foundations of 16th century farmhouses.

Llyn Brenig

Llyn Brenig

There were people on bikes were everywhere. The trails here all seem fairly tame by my standards but looked perfect for family rides. There is bike hire available from the visitor centre too. The visitor centre seemed to be doing a good trade today. People were sat outside eating ice creams and the café looked good too. We had panini’s for lunch along with a nice cup of coffee. Unfortunately all the tables on the balcony overlooking the lake were already taken so we sat inside under the low eaves of the building. Certainly a nice place to stop for lunch.

We then took a stroll out along the lakeside where people were fly fishing from the shore and across the dam at the end of the lake. It was a very gentle stroll as my legs were a little tight from the earlier run and Anna’s feet were hurting too. It was lovely in the sunshine though and a nice way to break up the journey home.

As well as fishing, walking and cycling, there is a sailing centre at the lake too. Unfortunately there were no swimming signs though and I’m not sure if you are allowed to canoe on it.

1 Response

  1. Avatar forComment Author Mun says:

    Very nice sounding place and it was good, I’m sure to spend a quiet afternoon together xx

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Alan Cole

Alan is a Freelance Website Designer, Sports & Exercise Science Lab Technician and full time Dad & husband with far too many hobbies: Triathlete, Swimming, Cycling, Running, MTBing, Surfing, Windsurfing, SUPing, Gardening, Photography.... The list goes on.

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