Llyn Dinas & Gwynant Valley Cafe Walk, Beddgelert

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Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 10.62 km (6.6 miles)

Approx. duration: 2:30-3:30hrs

Parking: Paid (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 10-minute walk

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Llyn Dinas lake near Beddgelert in Snowdonia National Park

This long but mostly flat valley walk follows the Gwynant River from Beddgelert through the heart of the Gwynant Valley, passing Llyn Dinas and continuing to a lakeside café before returning along the same route.

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a relaxed, low-level walk on clear, well-defined paths, ideal for an unhurried day out with the option of swimming, picnicking, and a café stop along the way.

Leaving Beddgelert, the route follows a riverside path through the broad Gwynant Valley, with the Gwynant River flowing alongside and mountain scenery rising on either side. The walking is gentle and straightforward, making this a good choice for covering distance without tackling steep ground.

The path reaches the shores of Llyn Dinas, a striking glacial lake set beneath steep valley sides. On warm days, the clear water offers an inviting spot for a quick swim, while the lakeside provides plenty of quiet places to pause and enjoy the setting.

Continuing beside the lake, the route leads on to Caffi Gwynant, a popular stopping point for lunch, coffee, or cake. This makes a natural turning point before retracing your steps back through the valley.

The return walk follows the same path back towards Beddgelert, allowing time to revisit favourite views and stop at the historic Sygun Copper Mines before completing the gentle walk back to the village.

Our 17th-century cottages sit just above Beddgelert, with walking routes straight from the door.

Step-by-Step Walk Guide

Numbered steps with photos to help you follow the route.

The walk begins beside the river and the public toilets in the centre of Beddgelert. Guests staying at Perthi Holiday Cottages can reach the start easily on foot by following the woodland path down into the village. Cross the bridge to begin the walk.
Follow the path that passes the quaint miners' houses keeping the river on your left hand side.
Follow the cobbled path signposted Nant Gwynant until you arrive at a tarmac back road. Don't cross the bridge left onto the main road. Keep following this back road behind Cae Du Campsite until you arrive at the Sygun Copper Mine.
Once you arrive at Sygun, follow the Lakeside Walk sign down underneath the car park towards the main road. Don't cross the bridge over the river. The path again follows the river towards Llyn Dinas (the river should be on your left hand side).
When arriving at Llyn Dinas, don't cross the bridge over the river. Go through the gate to the lake then follow the lake around to the other side, again keeping the lake on your left hand side.
Llyn Dinas lake near Beddgelert in Snowdonia National Park
The path arrives at a farm. Keeping following the road through a few gates until you come to a cattle grid. After the cattle grid turn left towards the main road crossing the river Gwynant for the first time.
Cross the main road and follow the lay-by until you arrive at Caffi Gwynant for a well-earned stop. To return, simply retrace your steps back to Beddgelert village.

17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert

Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews

Ty Hebog historical barn conversion exterior at Perthi in Beddgelert Cosy log burner interior at Ty Hebog cottage Luxury king size bedroom with original historic character at Ty Felin water mill

Stay in a converted water mill, a historic barn or a mountain lodge on Delyth’s family farm above the village — with wide Eryri views and walking routes from the door.