North Wales

Cwm Idwal/Devil's Kitchen


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Among the stunning landscape locations of Snowdonia, Cwm Idwal is a real jewel. It’s located just off the A5 between Capel Curig and Bethesda. There are lots of parking areas along the road, but the easiest car park is located next to the youth hostel opposite Llyn Ogwen. From here follow the footpath next to the small cafe/shop and toilets, and through a gate and over a bridge. The path is a gradual, but steady climb, which you follow around to the right.
There are numerous photo opportunities along here, but my favourite views are back along the stream with Pen yr Ole Wen in the background, just before you reach a footbridge and Llyn Idwal. Although you can also shoot the opposite direction, with the rocky pinnacles of Cwm Idwal as a background.
Once you reach Llyn Idwal the lake you have the option of going over the footbridge or walking around the left-hand side of the lake. But whichever way you go, the backdrop of the massive rock face of Cwm Idwal is dramatic and beautiful, especially if you go in the winter or early spring, when the top of the peaks have a covering of snow.


Devil's Kitchen
Devil's Kitchen