Llyn Gwynant fills the floor of Nantgwynant, the beautiful valley south-east of Yr Wyddfa, with the mountains and the surrounding oak woodland reflected in its still surface at dusk. In autumn, when the oaks turn copper and gold and the low sun lights the hills, this is one of the most beautiful landscape experiences in Wales. This is Experience #28 of the Snowdonia 100.
The Setting
Nantgwynant is one of the great glacial valleys of Eryri, its U-shaped profile and flat floor the work of ice. The oak woodland on the valley sides is ancient semi-natural woodland, a remnant of the forest that once covered much of Eryri before the hills were cleared for grazing. In late October, the colour change is at its height and the reflections in the lake, on a still evening, are extraordinary.
| Location | A498, Nantgwynant, north-east of Beddgelert |
| Best time | October-November for autumn colour; late afternoon |
| Parking | Lay-bys along the A498 and parking at the head of the lake |
| Walking | Paths along parts of the shore |
The View
The road above the lake gives the classic elevated view, looking down the length of Llyn Gwynant with the oaks in autumn colour and the lake perfectly still, the mountains compressed into reflection below. From the lakeshore, the scale of the surrounding slopes and the Snowdon massif above the valley head is easier to appreciate.
Plan Your Visit
The A498 runs the length of Nantgwynant between Beddgelert and Pen-y-Gwryd, passing Llyn Gwynant on the way. For sunset, aim to be in place an hour before the sun goes down: the valley is deep, and the light leaves the lake well before it leaves the tops. In late autumn, after the clocks go back, that can mean arriving by mid-afternoon.
The Sherpa’r Wyddfa S4 runs through the valley between Beddgelert and Pont Bethania, start of the Watkin Path, a little way down the valley from the lake, and links with Pen-y-Pass. Check the last bus before you commit to staying for the light.
Good to Know
- Lay-bys fill quickly in autumn. Never park on verges, in passing places or across gateways.
- The A498 is narrow, with no pavement for long stretches: take care walking along it, especially as the light fades.
- Bring a headtorch and a warm layer if you plan to walk the shore paths at dusk.
- Autumn colour usually peaks in late October and early November, but it varies with the year’s weather.
Morning light can be as good as the evening here, with mist on the water and the oaks lit from the east. If the forecast is calm, it is worth seeing both.
Nearby
- Llyn Gwynant lake guide
- Nant Gwynant: the valley and where to stay
- Watkin Path to Cwm Llan (Experience #14)
- Beddgelert in the Evening (Experience #31): dinner after the light has gone
FAQ
Where is the best viewpoint over Llyn Gwynant?
The road above the lake on the Pen-y-Gwryd side gives the classic elevated view down its length. For reflections, go down to the shore.
When is the best time for autumn colour?
Usually from late October into early November, when the valley oaks turn copper and gold.
Experience #28 of 100, Lakes and Waterfalls category.