Wild Swimming

Enjoy wild swimming in Eryri | Snowdonia National Park

Eryri | Snowdonia National Park is known for its rugged beauty and stunning landscapes, is a haven for wild and open water swimmers seeking to connect with nature in a unique way.

With its numerous lakes, rivers, pools and waterfalls, this beautiful part of Wales offers a plethora of wild swimming locations that cater to outdoor swimmers of all levels.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into this invigorating adventure activity or a seasoned wild swimmer, our beautiful area has something to offer for everyone!

The best places for wild swimming in and around Betws-y-Coed

These are just some of the amazing places to go wild swimming:

Llyn Geirionydd

Location: near both Trefriw and Betws-y-Coed

This lake is a serene and picturesque location where wild swimming and other watersports are permitted.

You will find Llyn Geirionydd just above the village of Trefriw, near Betws-y-Coed.

A tarmac road hugs the western shore of the lake from which there are various access points, and at the northern end there is a car park with toilets and a ‘launch’ platform.

Bhoys in the water mark a useful wild swimming course!

Llyn Parc

Location: near Betws-y-Coed

Nestled above the village of Betws-y-Coed, and in the heart of the Gwydir Forest, Llyn Parc is a hidden gem for wild swimming in Eryri | Snowdonia.

You cannot drive to it which adds to the serenity – instead a short hike on a marked trail from Betws-y-Coed takes you through the lush forest and brings you to the southern end of the lake.

The best access is on the east side of the lake and the shallow water at the shore soon gives way to water deep enough to swim.

Llynnau Mymbyr

Location: Capel Curig

These two lakes (in reality it is one) lie just beyond Capel Curig not far from Betws-y-Coed, and are a wonderful place to swim due to the expansive views of the Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) horseshoe mountain range.

You can park in the lay-by just after the Plas-y-Brenin outdoor centre, then walk down to the lake and go over the bridge to access a small ‘beach’ and pontoon where you can access the water.

Plas-y-Brenin itself has a cafe so you can always refuel there with a well deserved coffee after your dip!

Safety considerations when wild swimming!

• Let family and friends know where you are going swimming – where possible swim with other people
• Familiarise yourself with the river or lake – especially if it is new to you – and ensure you have appropriate swimwear and gear such as a wetsuit if appropriate, swimming shoes and a float
• Always assess the potential risks of wild swimming in natural bodies of water and be mindful of factors at the location you choose such as the temperature, depth, currents, and hidden hazards (such as rocks or vegetation) below the water
• ‘Cold water shock’ is a real danger when swimming in potentially cold, open water
• To avoid this make sure you acclimatise first by slowly entering the water – don’t jump in – and have some warm clothes or a dry robe and a hot drink ready for when you exit the water