About

The Llyn Clywedog is 6 miles from Llanidloes and 5 miles from the Hafren Forest Trails and the starting point for the Source of the Severn walk. It is a man made reservoir formed by the construction of the Clywedog Dam. The lake has a surface area of 615 acres (230 football pitches), and 216 ft deep at its maximum depth and stretches in all a distance of some six miles and at its maximum, it is just 500 yards wide.

Some 15 new or improved roads were built around the reservoir and a number of viewing points and picnic areas are arranged along the circular drive around the lake enabling visitor to enjoy the wonderful panoramic views.

There is a second, much less visible dam at Bwlch-y-gle. This is an earthen structure faced with stone, about 40ft high and 600ft long which prevents the lake spilling over into the neighbouring valleys on either side of Bryn y Fan hill, the highest of the hills surrounding the lake and a commanding feature to be seen from miles around.

Alongside the reservoir is Hafren Forest which offers a series of walks including one to the source of the River Severn on Plynlimon. The River Wye also begins its journey on this mountain.

WALKING TRAILS
Llyn Clywedog has two marked trails which highlights the breathtaking scenery and stunning views of the dam itself. Around the Lake there are a number of walks including the Clywedog Gorge Trail around the Bryn Tail Mine workings and the Llyn Clywedog Scenic Trail.

The Glyndwr's Way National Trail also passes beneath the dam before pursuing a course along the southern shore of the lake. There is a short Glyndwrs Circular Walk (5km/3m) which starts at the Clywedog dam viewing area and along the Clywedog reservoir dragon’s back ridge providing awesome views. If you are lucky a water release on the dam may be happening, which makes a spectacular sight.

WILDLIFE | BIRDWATCHING
Llyn Clywedog provides a perfect habitat for wildlife. Buzzards and Red Kite are now a common sight, and recently there have even been occasional sightings of Ospreys that are known to nest in the area. Mallard are attracted to the lake, while Tawney Owls, Pied Flycatchers and a whole host of Tits have established themselves in the woods bordering the shore.

FISHING
The reservoir is also one of the country’s leading fisheries for fly fishing, and has attracted former American President Jimmy Carter in the past. The lake is amply stocked with brown and rainbow trout. The management and fishing rights are the preserve of the Llanidloes Angling Society.

SAILING
Sailing on the lake is run by the Clywedog Sailing Club. Both organisations hold numerous competitions and regattas throughout the year and visitors are always welcome.