Craig y Llyn
Cliff Welsh mountain with twin glacial lakes
A crag and upland lake area in South Wales offering walking routes, geological interest and birdwatching; visitors come for hillwalking and broad views across valleys toward Swansea Bay on clear days.
Craig y Llyn is an upland ridge and mountain area in south Wales notable for its glacial lakes and moorland. It forms a compact upland feature within the surrounding lowlands.
The landforms were shaped during the last glacial period, which left corrie basins now occupied by the lakes. Human use has been primarily agricultural and recreational rather than industrial.
It lies in southern Wales within the local authority area of Neath Port Talbot and is accessible from nearby valleys and towns in the region. The feature stands above surrounding lowlands and is a local high point in the landscape.
- Glacial lakes: The site contains two glacially-formed lakes that are notable features in an otherwise upland moorland setting.
- Conservation interest: The area has protected conservation status for its upland habitats and is known locally for walking and birdwatching opportunities.
What to See #
- Upper and lower glacial lakes: Two small upland lakes of glacial origin located near the summit area and occupying corries on the mountain's eastern slopes, commonly known locally by their Welsh names.
- Summit plateau and moorland: The mountain summit and surrounding moorland form a compact upland massif with heather moor and exposed rock, designated for conservation interest.
How to Get to Craig y Llyn #
Craig y Llyn lies in the Neath Port Talbot area of Wales. Access is by minor roads from nearby villages; parking is typically roadside or in small lay-bys. Consult local OS maps for precise approaches and public footpaths.
Tips for Visiting Craig y Llyn #
- Wear sturdy shoes - the terrain can be rocky and steep in places.
- Start early for clearer views; cloud and low mist can arrive quickly in this area of Wales.
Best Time to Visit Craig y Llyn #
Late spring to autumn offers the best conditions for hillwalking; always check mountain weather forecasts.
Weather & Climate near Craig y Llyn #
Craig y Llyn's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 0°C to 18°C. Abundant rainfall (1780 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (205 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (145 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (147 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (174 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (200 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (209 mm) and mostly overcast skies.