#340 – Cwm Idwal in the Glyderau, North Wales

The impressive cwm of Cwm Idwal is barely 1 km from the busy A5, but within minutes of leaving the road, the traffic noise has vanished. Centre piece of the cwm is the lake Llyn Idwal, named after Idwal, son of Owain Gwynedd.

Idwal was a scholarly youth, not a warrior, and when Owain went to war, Idwal was sent to stay with Nefydd, his uncle. Nefydd’s son, Rhun, was dull and witless, and the jealous uncle drowned Idwal in the lake that bears his name – or so the legend goes.

Looking across Llyn Idwal to Idwal Slabs

It is also said that the lake is cursed following the murder, and that birds will not fly over the water. Nowadays, Idwal is better known for the high quality of rock climbing on Idwal Slabs, a popular trad climbing area which has remained popular for over 100 years.

The popular rock-climbing crag of Idwal Slabs

If you like any of the images, feel free to share or use – just give me a mention, that would be cool.

All images © Paul Shorrock

About Paul Shorrock

I've been mucking about in the mountains for longer than I care to mention. I started out by walking my local hills, then went on to rock climbing, mountaineering and skiing. Still doing it, and still getting a buzz. I'm now sharing the fun, through my guided walking business (Hillcraft Guided Walking) and by writing routes for other publishers, mainly Walking World and Discovery Walking Guides. Just to make sure I keep really busy, I am also currently a member of my local mountain rescue team.

View all posts by Paul Shorrock →

This entry was posted in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink.