Hike Clywedog Reservoir, Wales - Circular 4.2km

If you’re looking for a short but stunning circular hike, this one at Clywedog Reservoir should be on your list.

Where to park to hike Clywedog Reservoir

We visited Clywedog Reservoir in our campervan, so we stayed the night at the View Point Car Park and drove to a different car park closer to the trail the next day.

If you’re coming for this hike, then we’d recommend parking at the Llyn Clywedog Visitor Centre. Be warned it does get busy here in peak season.

The walk itself - what to expect on this 4.2km trail

While this hike may be short, it is hilly, and the paths can be very slippery. For that reason, it’s graded as moderate but could even be classed as challenging depending on your fitness level and the time of year you visit.

  1. Starting from the visitor center car park, make your way to the trail by following the winding road and then picking up this short but steep footpath.

Getting to the trail at Llyn Clywedog from the visitor center

You’re starting at the P.

Be warned this is steep! If you don’t fancy it you can take the road.

2. Next, choose your direction. We did this hike in reverse, which meant we got to take in what we thought was the best view while descending.

3. If doing the hike in reverse, you’ll start by climbing Yr Allt before enjoying views of the reservoir on your descent down to the water’s edge at the hike’s furthest point. Here’s where you'll be walking (taken from the View Point car park the night before)

4. At the tip of this section, I took a brisk little dip - but little did I know it was quite a popular spot!

Swim suit recommended but optional.

5. If hiking in reverse, you’ll finish by skirting the water’s edge before steadily climbing back up to where you started. On this day we watched as fishermen tried their luck!

Is this hike suitable for dogs?

Absolutely! Like most places in Wales, sheep are everywhere, so keep your eyes peeled and put your dog on a lead if you see them grazing nearby.

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Hike to Grwyne Fawr Reservoir, Wales