Updated: December 30, 2025
Tucked in the heart of the Conwy Valley, Gwydir Forest Park is a landscape of lakes, woodland and echoes of an industrial past. Covering over 28 square kilometres of mixed conifer and broadleaf trees, it’s not your typical manicured country park – it’s a working forest threaded with some of North Wales’ best trails.
Gwydir isn’t just for walkers – it’s a place for mountain bikers, families exploring old mine ruins and wild swimmers looking for a quiet dip in the lakes. On a damp morning, with cloud over the hills and the forest still, it feels pleasantly remote.
This guide includes everything you need to plan your visit – from practical details and top walks to the forest’s hidden corners. Whether you’re after a gentle lakeside stroll or a full day of adventure, here’s how to make the most of this remarkable part of North Wales.
Planning Your Visit: The Practical Details
A little planning goes a long way in a forest this size. Gwydir isn’t one single destination – it’s a network of valleys, lakes and hilltops. Here’s what you need to know before you set off.
Getting There & Main Car Parks
The forest stretches from Betws-y-Coed in the south to the shores of Llyn Geirionydd in the north. Most visitors use Betws-y-Coed (LL24) as their base, but our two cottages sit just beyond Llanrwst on the opposite side of the river – perfectly placed for easy access without the bustle of the village. The heart of the forest is only a 15-minute drive away, making it an ideal doorstep adventure for our guests.
Key car parks managed by Natural Resources Wales include:
- Sawbench (Pont y Pair)
On the edge of Betws-y-Coed, ideal for shorter walks (postcode: LL24 0BB). - Cyffty
Main access point for the Marin Trail mountain bike route. Free parking, but limited spaces (postcode: LL24 0LD). - Llyn Crafnant
Perfect starting point for the lake walk. Free parking at Natural Resources Wales car park (postcode: LL26 0UP). Note: The car park is small and fills by 9:30am on sunny weekends – arrive before 9am or visit midweek. - Llyn Geirionydd
A quieter option with easy access to lakeside trails and the Taliesin monument. Free parking (postcode: LL26 0NW).
What to Pack
🥾 Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Walking boots are recommended for anything beyond the shortest strolls.
🌧️ Waterproofs
This is North Wales – the weather changes quickly. A packable waterproof jacket is essential year-round.
🗺️ Map & GPS
Phone signal can be unreliable. Bring an OS Explorer map (OL17) or download offline maps before you go.
🍫 Snacks & Water
There are no cafés deep in the forest. The nearest facilities are in Betws-y-Coed or the seasonal café at Llyn Crafnant.
🧥 Layers
Forest paths can be sheltered, but exposed ridges may be cool and breezy. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust easily.
🔧 Bike Repair Kit
Essential if tackling the Marin Trail. The nearest bike shop is in Betws-y-Coed.
Gwydir Forest Walks for Every Ability
From peaceful lake circuits to challenging ascents, Gwydir has a walk for everyone.
Easy: Llyn Parc Discovery Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) circular
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Start: Sawbench car park, Betws-y-Coed
This gentle trail is ideal for families. The route passes the impressive ruins of Cyffty lead mine and follows the Afon Llugwy through beautiful oak woodland.
Information boards along the way explain the area’s history and wildlife.
Moderate: The Lakes of Crafnant & Geirionydd
Distance: 6 miles (10 km) circular
Time: 3–4 hours
Start: Llyn Crafnant car park (LL26 0UP)
This is one of the finest walks in Gwydir, linking two stunning lakes. It involves around 400m of ascent on forest tracks and quiet lanes, but the views of the lakes and surrounding Carneddau mountains are magnificent.
A highlight is wild swimming in Llyn Geirionydd, surrounded by pine-covered hills and quiet trails. Swimming is strictly forbidden in Llyn Crafnant as it’s a drinking water reservoir for Llanrwst, but Geirionydd offers a refreshing dip in one of North Wales’ most peaceful settings.
Challenging: Pen yr Allt Uchaf
Distance: 8–10 miles (varies)
Time: 4–5 hours
Start: Llanrwst or Cyffty car park
For seasoned walkers, this trail climbs to Gwydir’s highest point at 534m. It’s a proper workout on steep forest tracks, rewarded with panoramic views across the Conwy Valley and Eryri (Snowdonia).
Navigation skills are essential as the route is not fully waymarked. The ridges here connect to the Carneddau mountains, Eryri’s quiet giants that dominate our cottage views.
Uncover the Past: The Forgotten Mines of Gwydir
Before the forest was planted, these valleys were a hub of lead and zinc mining.
Today, ivy-covered engine houses and mossy ruins are scattered throughout the trees. Key sites to look for include the Cyffty Engine House and the remains of Klondyke Mine. Explore carefully and never enter old mine workings.
For the Adrenaline Seekers: The Marin Trail
This legendary mountain bike route is a North Wales classic. Now officially known as Gwydir Mawr and Bach (though many still call it the Marin Trail), the full 25km (15.5 mile) red-graded route is suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. Expect big climbs, technical singletrack and fast, flowing descents.
The trail starts and ends at Cyffty car park and is free to ride. A shorter 8.7km version (Gwydir Bach) offers a taste of the route for those with less time or stamina.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
The Best Viewpoint
For a stunning view without a strenuous hike, walk five minutes from the Llyn Geirionydd car park to the Taliesin monument. It overlooks the lake towards the Carneddau mountains and is perfect at golden hour.
The Llyn Crafnant Parking Trick
The car park here is tiny and fills by 9:30 am on sunny weekends. To avoid frustration, arrive before 9 am, visit midweek or start from the larger Llyn Geirionydd car park instead.
Wildlife Watching
Look for Red Kites soaring overhead, spot Red Squirrels in the pine woods near Llyn Geirionydd and enjoy the dragonflies around the lakes in summer.
Ready to Explore?
Gwydir Forest Park is just one part of the Conwy Valley’s adventure. After exploring the trails, head to Betws-y-Coed, the forest’s gateway village, for riverside cafés, outdoor shops and cosy pubs.
Planning a longer stay? Our cottages are a 15-minute drive from the forest, making them an ideal base for exploring Gwydir and the wider Conwy Valley without spending half your holiday in the car. After a day on the trails, return to your private hot tub and watch the sun set over these same mountains.
Check availability and find your Gwydir Forest base here.
FAQs
Is Gwydir Forest Park dog-friendly?
Yes, it’s a fantastic place for dogs. Keep them under control near livestock and be aware of fast-moving cyclists on shared trails.
Can you swim in the lakes?
Swimming is popular in Llyn Geirionydd (at your own risk). However, swimming is strictly forbidden in Llyn Crafnant as it is a drinking water reservoir for Llanrwst. Private boating is also not permitted in Llyn Crafnant.
How much does it cost to visit?
Entry to the forest is free. The main car parks (Llyn Crafnant and Llyn Geirionydd) operated by Natural Resources Wales are FREE. Some smaller car parks may have pay-and-display charges.
How long should I allow for a visit?
It depends on your plans. A short family walk takes 1-2 hours. The lakes circuit is 3-4 hours. The full mountain bike trail takes 2-4 hours for experienced riders. Many visitors make a full day of it, combining a morning walk with lunch in Betws-y-Coed.
Is there mobile phone signal?
Signal can be patchy deep in the forest. Download offline maps before you go and let someone know your plans if you’re heading out alone.
