Top 10 Lakes around Nantmel
Best lakes around Nantmel are primarily the reservoirs of the Elan Valley, an area often referred to as the "Welsh Lake District." This region, situated near Nantmel, features a landscape of dams and reservoirs that were constructed to supply water to Birmingham. It provides natural beauty, historical significance, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling and walking.
Best lakes around Nantmel
- The most popular lakes is Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, a significant man-made structure. This is the second largest reservoir in the Elan Valley, known for its impressive dam and a cycle path running alongside the lakeshore.
- Another must-see spot is Garreg Ddu Reservoir and Bridge on the Elan Valley Trail, a scenic cycle route. Visitors can experience stunning lakeside reflection views along a wide and well-surfaced cycle track.
- Visitors also love Elan Valley Trail, a popular cycling route. This trail leads from Rhayader around the reservoirs, spanning over 70 square miles of countryside.
- Nantmel is known for its extensive network of reservoirs and dams, which form the dominant water features in the area. These man-made lakes offer a variety of landscapes and recreational opportunities.
- The lakes around Nantmel are appreciated by the komoot community. They have generated 99 upvotes and 24 photos, highlighting their appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir
Highlight • Structure
The cycle path goes to the right of the lakeshore and there is a small rest area at the top. Here you can relax a bit and watch the large water surface or admire the dam. Swimming is unfortunately not allowed, and would be no fun anyway, as the shore is hardly accessible.
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Pen-y-Garreg Dam
Highlight • Viewpoint
The Pen-y-Garreg is the third Dam up through the Elan Valley, also to be known as the 'Middle Dam'.
Pen-y-Garreg Dam is unusual in that it houses an access tunnel to the central tower which is lit by apertures in the downstream side of the dam.
The viaduct at Garreg Ddu further downstream does not resemble the other dams since the dam part of the structure is not visible above the water surface in normal conditions. There are atotal of four dams on the river Elan;.
Craig Goch.
Pen-y-Garreg.
Garreg-Ddu.
Caban Coch.
The river Claerwen has the newest and largest, Claerwen Dam followed by the unfinished Dol y Mynach dam.
With the exception of Dol y Mynach all the dams are also accessible by car.
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Elan Valley Trail
Highlight • Trail
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Elan Reservoir Gravel Track
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Garreg Ddu Reservoir and Bridge on the Elan Valley Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
A good way into the valley. A flat out gravel surface that winds around the dams for miles
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Brilliant place to Cycle , either on road or Trails ...just Brill !!!
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Elan Valley is a mountain bikers dream. A mix of natural trails that follow the reservoirs and crest the lofty tops of each valley. There's also a great trailhead in the middle of the valley at Nantgwyllt for some great flowing singletrack.
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Pen y Garreg Dam third of the Elan Valley Dams, also known as the middle dam. This dam houses an access tunnel to the central tower which is lit by apertures in the downstream side of the dam. Height - 123 ft above river bed. Beautiful scenery a great ride around this area.
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Pen y Garreg is the third dam up the Elan Valley, often referred to as the ‘middle dam.’ The viaduct at Garreg Ddu further downstream does not resemble the other dams since the dam part of the structure is not visible above the water surface in normal conditions. This dam is unusual in that it houses an access tunnel to the central tower which is lit by apertures in the downstream side of the dam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and reservoirs to visit around Nantmel?
The most popular water features around Nantmel are the reservoirs of the Elan Valley. Visitors particularly enjoy Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, known for its impressive dam and scenic cycle path. Another favorite is Garreg Ddu Reservoir and Bridge, offering stunning reflection views along a wide, well-surfaced cycle track.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes near Nantmel?
Yes, the Elan Valley area offers several family-friendly options. The Elan Valley Trail is a popular cycling route suitable for families, and highlights like Pen-y-Garreg Dam and Garreg Ddu Reservoir and Bridge are noted as family-friendly viewpoints and cycle ways.
What kind of natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see in the Elan Valley?
The Elan Valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by dramatic landscapes, dams, and reservoirs. You can enjoy impressive views of the dams, such as Caban-Coch Dam, and picturesque lakeside reflections at places like Garreg Ddu Reservoir. The entire area is a haven for wildlife and offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing due to its International Dark Sky Park status.
What outdoor activities are available near the lakes around Nantmel?
The Elan Valley, near Nantmel, is excellent for outdoor activities. Cycling is very popular, with routes like the Elan Valley Trail and the Elan Reservoir Gravel Track offering scenic rides. You can also find numerous hiking and walking trails. For more detailed routes, explore the cycling guides around Nantmel or the hiking guides around Nantmel.
Are there hiking trails around the Elan Valley lakes?
Yes, there are many hiking trails around the Elan Valley lakes, ranging in difficulty. You can find easy walks like the 'Claerwen Dam – Caban Coch Dam loop from Elan Village' or more moderate and difficult routes. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the hiking guides around Nantmel.
What is the historical significance of the Elan Valley reservoirs?
The Elan Valley reservoirs hold significant historical importance as they were constructed starting in 1883 to supply fresh water to Birmingham, England. The valley features six impressive dams, with the last one opened in 1953, showcasing remarkable Victorian engineering.
Can I go wild swimming in the Elan Valley reservoirs?
Swimming is generally not permitted in the Elan Valley reservoirs due to difficult access to the shore and safety concerns. For example, at Caban-Coch Reservoir, swimming is explicitly not allowed.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Nantmel and the Elan Valley?
The Elan Valley is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather for cycling and walking. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter can provide dramatic, rugged scenery. The area's Dark Sky Park status makes it exceptional for stargazing, particularly on clear nights throughout the year.
Are there any unique features among the Elan Valley dams?
Yes, Pen-y-Garreg Dam is unique for housing an access tunnel to its central tower, which is lit by apertures on the downstream side. Also, the dam part of the Garreg Ddu structure is not typically visible above the water surface under normal conditions, unlike the other dams.
Where can I find parking facilities when visiting the Elan Valley lakes?
Parking facilities are available at various points throughout the Elan Valley, particularly near popular highlights and visitor centers. Many of the dams, including Pen-y-Garreg Dam and Caban-Coch Dam, are accessible by car, implying nearby parking options.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Elan Valley lakes?
Visitors consistently praise the Elan Valley for its stunning scenery and the peaceful atmosphere. Many enjoy the excellent cycling routes, such as the Elan Valley Trail, and the impressive views of the dams and reservoirs. The area is often described as a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Are there easy walking routes available around the lakes?
Yes, the Elan Valley offers several easy walking routes. For example, the 'Claerwen Dam – Caban Coch Dam loop from Elan Village' is an easy hike. You can find more options suitable for various fitness levels in the easy hikes around Nantmel guide.
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