Llyn Fawr

The water sits dark and still at Llyn Fawr, reflecting the steep hillsides that rise on either side. It's a proper mountain lake in Powys, the sort of place where you feel genuinely remote even though Neath is only a short drive away. The walk down to it isn't trivial - there's real elevation to deal with - but that's part of why it feels special. Most visitors come for the hiking. The scenery is honestly stunning, all raw moorland and ancient geography, though you won't find facilities or crowds here.

This is for walkers and photographers, frankly. If you're after a splashy beach or a lake café, you'll be disappointed. Children who can manage a proper fell walk will find it brilliant; everyone else might start grumbling after the first climb. The water itself is cold and dark, the sort that suggests deep history - Bronze Age artefacts were found here years back. You can easily spend two or three hours walking the perimeter, depending on your pace and how many times you stop to look around.

It works well as part of a wider Powys walking holiday. Willow Springs Campsite and Four Falls Glamping are both within reach, giving you proper bases for exploring the area. Llyn Fawr itself demands respect and decent footwear; summer is best, though even then the weather can turn quickly up here. Admission is free, and there's no set opening hours - it's essentially always accessible if you're willing to hike to it.