The best walks and hikes around Banwy
4.5
(143)
1,284
hikers
57
hikes
Hiking around Banwy offers a diverse landscape centered around the River Banwy, River Vyrnwy, and the prominent Lake Vyrnwy in Wales. The region features varied terrain, from accessible waterside paths to more challenging elevated routes with significant elevation gains. Hikers can experience both serene lake views and rugged Welsh countryside.
Best hiking trails around Banwy
- The most popular hiking route is Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, a 3.96 miles (6.4 km) trail…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.7
(21)
133
hikers
6.22km
01:53
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
4.93km
01:25
130m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
33
hikers
11.2km
03:07
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
16
hikers
16.5km
04:49
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
12
hikers
17.1km
05:01
470m
470m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Abertridwr is just a short stroll from Lake Vrynwy and is a good base camp for hikes around the reservoir and into the vast Dyfnant Forest. There's a village store for stocking up and you'll find tent pitches at the Lake Vrynwy Campsite. The village features on the Glyndŵr’s Way National Trail.
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This is a nice spot to relax and enjoy the pretty settlement of Pontrobert on the River Vrynwy. Pontrobert features on the Glyndŵr’s Way long-distance trail, as well as the 7-mile (11 km) Ann Griffiths Walk.
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Dolanog is a picturesque settlement on the River Vyrnwy and is visited on the Glyndŵr’s Way National Trail. It has associations with another Welsh hero in Ann Griffiths, who lived here at Dolwar Fechan. The Ann Griffiths Memorial Chapel pays tribute to the nonconformist Welsh poet.
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The hills of the great Dyfnant Forest were once rode by Welsh hero Owain Glyndŵr, who led the rebellion against English rule in Wales during the 15th century. Today, the woodland is still enjoyed by those on horseback, as well as hikers on the Glyndŵr’s Way long-distance trail. The coniferous woodland here is part of the National Forest for Wales project.
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Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.
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The RSPB centre keeps a board of all the recent birds sighted in the area.
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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
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There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Banwy region?
The Banwy region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with nearly 60 distinct trails recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging treks, catering to all fitness levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Banwy?
Yes, Banwy has several easy routes perfect for families. An excellent option is the Artisans Café & Gift Shop – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, which is an easy 6.4 km trail offering beautiful views of Lake Vyrnwy and its dam. Another accessible choice is the Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, a 5.1 km easy route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Banwy?
Hiking in Banwy offers diverse terrain. You'll find everything from accessible waterside paths around Lake Vyrnwy and along the River Vyrnwy to more rugged, elevated routes with significant elevation gains. Trails can range from gentle walks to demanding treks requiring sure-footedness and sturdy shoes.
Are there any circular walks in the Banwy area?
Many of the trails in Banwy are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the moderate River Vyrnwy – Dolanog loop from Dolanog follows the River Vyrnwy, providing a mix of riverside scenery and gentle ascents. For a more challenging circular option, consider the Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Giants of Vyrnwy loop from Hendre Car Park.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking in Banwy?
The Banwy region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the impressive Lake Vyrnwy Dam, explore the scenic Rhiwargor Waterfall, or challenge yourself to reach the Summit of Aran Fawddwy for panoramic views. Other highlights include Aran Benllyn and the Erw y Ddafad-ddu Summit.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Banwy?
The trails in Banwy are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lake views to rugged Welsh countryside, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the Banwy area?
For those seeking a challenge, Banwy offers several demanding routes. The Lake Vyrnwy Dam – Giants of Vyrnwy loop from Hendre Car Park is a difficult 17.8 km trail that takes over 5 hours to complete, featuring significant elevation gains around Lake Vyrnwy.
Can I find moderate difficulty hikes in Banwy?
Absolutely. The region has 29 moderate trails. A popular choice is the Giants of Vyrnwy – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Abertridwr, an 11.4 km route that leads through elevated terrain around Lake Vyrnwy, offering a good balance of distance and ascent.
What are the main geographical features defining the hiking experience in Banwy?
The hiking experience in Banwy is primarily defined by the waters of Lake Vyrnwy, the winding course of the River Vyrnwy, and the surrounding diverse elevated routes. These features create a varied landscape, from tranquil lakeside paths to more rugged, hilly terrain.
Is the Banwy region suitable for beginner hikers?
Yes, Banwy is suitable for beginners, with 19 easy trails available. These routes typically involve minimal elevation gain and shorter distances, making them ideal for those new to hiking or looking for a relaxed walk. The paths around Lake Vyrnwy are particularly accessible.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Banwy?
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, the diverse terrain of Banwy means hiking can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for more challenging routes.
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