Llyn Idwal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Llyn Idwal |
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 Llyn Idwal
Location in Conwy
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| Location | Snowdonia, Wales |
| Coordinates | 53°6′57″N 4°1′32″W / 53.11583°N 4.02556°W |
| Lake type | natural |
| Basin countries | United Kingdom |
| Max. length | 2,115 feet (645 m) |
| Max. width | 885 feet (270 m) |
| Surface area | 28 acres (11 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 373 m (1,224 ft) |
| Islands | numerous islets |
| Designated: | 7 November 1991 |
| Reference #: | 534 |
Llyn Idwal is a beautiful small lake located in the Snowdonia mountains of Wales. It sits inside a special valley called Cwm Idwal, surrounded by the Glyderau mountains. The lake is about 800 meters (2,600 feet) long and 300 meters (980 feet) wide. It's a popular spot for visitors because of its stunning views and interesting history.
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The Story Behind the Name
Llyn Idwal is named after a Welsh prince. His name was Prince Idwal Foel. He was the grandson of Rhodri Mawr, a very old King of Wales.
There's a sad legend about Prince Idwal. Some stories say he was drowned in the lake. But history tells us something different. Prince Idwal Foel actually died in a battle. This battle was against the Saxons in the year 942. Another version of the story says he was cremated near the lake. This was a common burial custom for important Celtic people.
Water Flowing In and Out
Many small streams flow into Llyn Idwal. These streams come from all around the Cwm Idwal valley. One small river flows out of the lake. It joins the Afon Ogwen river. This happens near a place called Pont Pen-y-Benglog. This spot is right above the Rhaeadr Ogwen waterfall.
Exploring the Lake
Llyn Idwal is easy to reach on foot. There's a stone path about 900 meters (3,000 feet) long. It starts from Ogwen Cottage on the main A5 road. Another path goes all the way around the lake. This is great for a walk.
Paths to the Peaks
Two paths lead from the lake up to the ridge. They go towards a spot called Twll Du. This is also known as the Devil's Kitchen. These paths can get quite steep in some places. They lead to the mountain peaks of Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr.
Swimming and Safety
There is a small pebble beach at one end of Llyn Idwal. Visitors sometimes use it for fun activities. Some people even go swimming there in the summer. But remember, it's a mountain lake. The water can be very cold. Swimmers should always be careful and stay in shallow areas.
Location Details
Llyn Idwal is mostly in Gwynedd County. However, its eastern edge forms a border. This border is between Gwynedd and Conwy counties.
Images for kids
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Llyn Idwal, summer 2007
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Llyn Idwal surrounded in mist, summer 2008
