Llyn Melynllyn

The walk to Llyn Melynllyn rewards you with a proper mountain lake surrounded by steep slate crags - the kind of place that feels genuinely remote even though you're only a few miles from Llanfairfechan. It's not a casual stroll; the path climbs steadily through moorland before opening onto this dark, dramatic pool of water that reflects the brooding Conwy Valley hills. The lake itself sits at around 1,000 feet, so you get genuine altitude without needing rock climbing skills.

This is walkers' terrain, full stop. You'll need decent boots, weather-appropriate gear, and at least two to three hours depending on your pace and the route you take. The surrounding landscape is raw - no cafes, no facilities, no crowds of day-trippers. If you're after a gentle lakeside amble with an ice cream van, look elsewhere. If you want to earn a wild Welsh mountain experience with minimal faffing about, this delivers.

Families with experienced young walkers might manage it, but smaller children will find it tough going. The real appeal is for serious hikers wanting to combine this with other Conwy Valley peaks, or anyone who appreciates empty, windswept spaces where the only sound is water and wind.

It's completely free and accessible year-round, though winter conditions can be treacherous. Spring and early summer offer the best weather odds. If you're based at any of the nearby caravan parks around Llanfairfechan - Ogwen Bank, Wern Farm, or Cefn Cae - this makes a proper full-day adventure that justifies staying in the area.