Cwm Idwal

About this park

Lace up your boots and bring your four-legged friend for a truly spectacular walk through Cwm Idwal in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. As the UK's oldest National Nature Reserve, this place is simply breathtaking, with dramatic, ice-sculpted landscapes and the glistening Llyn Idwal at its heart. It's a moderately strenuous walk but the rewards are immense, offering some of the most stunning mountain views you'll find anywhere in Britain. You and your canine companion will love exploring this unique landscape, famous for its fascinating rock formations and rare plant life. The main path takes you around Llyn Idwal, where you can choose to go clockwise or anti-clockwise, both offering incredible vistas. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive Idwal Slabs and the Darwin Idwal Boulders – reminders of the powerful forces of nature that shaped this valley. While dogs are very welcome to join you on this adventure, it's really important to keep them on a lead at all times. This is vital to protect the fragile environment, the rare plants, and local wildlife, and out of consideration for other walkers. Parking is available at the Parc Genedlaethol Eryri (Snowdonia National Park) car park at Llyn Ogwen, which isn't managed by the National Trust. It can get very busy, especially during peak times, so consider taking public transport – the T10 bus service runs frequently between Bangor and Corwen, stopping conveniently at Ogwen Cottage. There's also a local shuttle bus, Bws Ogwen, if you're travelling between Bethesda and Capel Curig. Unfortunately, there are no café facilities directly at the starting point, so it's a good idea to bring your own refreshments for you and your pup. Do remember to pack out everything you pack in, keeping this beautiful reserve pristine.

Facilities

• Water Station
• Parking

Opening hours

Open 24 hours