Llyn Cyri

The walk down to Llyn Cyri takes you through proper Welsh moorland - bracken and heather, the sort of terrain that makes you feel like you've actually gone somewhere. The lake itself sits in a quiet valley near Dolgellau, and it's the kind of place where you won't find crowds or gift shops or any of that nonsense.

It's a straightforward there-and-back walk of about an hour from the nearest parking. The water is dark and still, backed by steep hillsides that reflect grey skies or, if you're lucky, actual sunshine. Worth doing on a clear day when you can see properly - when the cloud rolls in, it becomes a bit atmospheric but loses some of its appeal.

Walkers will get genuine value here. The paths are rough but manageable, and there's something satisfying about the isolation. Young children might find the walk tedious unless they're keen types. It's not a swimming spot or a picnic destination - it's really about the walk and the landscape.

If you're staying at Sunbeach Holiday Park nearby, this makes a decent half-day expedition. The area around Dolgellau has plenty of other walks and lakes, so you could easily slot this into a larger exploring day rather than making it your sole purpose. Free to visit, no facilities at the lake itself, so bring what you need.