Area
Llyn Tegid, Y Bala
Always open
Free
“3.7 miles (6.0 km) long”
“0.5 miles (0.8 km) wide”
“Has a maximum depth of 40m”
Is Llyn Tegid found on the outskirts of Bala, or is it the other way around? Either way, the infamous lake - the largest natural body of water in Wales - can be found right here, on the shores of this historic market town. Nestled within the boundaries of the breathtaking Eryri National Park in North Wales, immerse yourself in the serenity and natural beauty of this picturesque region, where you'll find the immense Llyn Tegid. From its tranquil ambience to its exciting recreational opportunities, if you seek a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, Llyn Tegid, and Bala, has something to offer everyone.
Llyn Tegid stretches across a vast expanse, measuring 3.5 miles in length and three-quarters of a mile at its widest point. There are a number of circular walks, but traversing the entire circumference means a walk of 16 miles. As you venture to its shores, you'll be captivated by the serene atmosphere that has earned it the name "The Lake of Serenity." The tranquil ambience and breathtaking surroundings make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape alike.
Llyn Tegid offers a plethora of exciting water sports activities for adventure seekers. Whether you're a fan of paddleboarding, canoeing, windsurfing, or fishing, the lake provides the perfect playground for your aquatic adventures. Before embarking on your water sports journey, it's important to note that permits are required for activities such as paddleboarding, canoeing, rowing, and fishing. Watersports permits can be obtained to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the lake.
For fishing enthusiasts, Llyn Tegid is a paradise. With its abundant fish population, including trout and other species, the lake offers a rewarding angling experience. Fishing permits are required and can be obtained through the Snowdonia National Park Authority. So cast your line, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this angler's haven.
According to the history books, Llyn Tegid was not the original name of the lake. In the 12th century, Gerald of Wales recorded the name of Llyn Tegid as 'Penmelesmere', and also 'Pymplwy meer', the latter deriving from the Welsh 'pum plwyf' meaning 'five parishes'.
As you explore the region surrounding Llyn Tegid, you'll encounter a myriad of unique place names that reflect the area's rich cultural heritage. From the names of mountains and valleys to the hidden gems nestled within the landscape, each name tells a story. Delve into the fascinating world of Eryri's place names and uncover the history and significance behind each moniker, connecting with the land and its people on a deeper level.
Location
Llyn Tegid is steeped in legend and folklore, adding an air of mystique to its already enchanting allure. According to local tales, the lake is said to be home to a mythical creature affectionately known as "Teggie." This mysterious monster has captured the imaginations of locals and visitors alike, adding an element of intrigue to any visit to Llyn Tegid. Additionally, it is rumored that on moonlit nights, the submerged towers and buildings of a sunken village can be glimpsed through the crystal-clear waters, further fueling the sense of wonder surrounding the lake.
The word 'Bala' itself translates to 'outlet of a lake'. The perfect name for this historic Meirionnydd town, wouldn't you say?
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Somewhere you've never been? What is Nearby?
Bala
The picturesque market town of Bala is situated on the banks of the tranquil Bala Lake. It’s always popular with visitors and definitely worth visiting. “Bala” is a Welsh word that refers a route between 2 areas of wet ground, in this case the river Dee from Llyn Tegid and the Afon (river)Tryweryn. The town is very traditional, and ranks 11th in terms of the highest percentage of Welsh speakers; almost 80% of the community speak the Brittonic language fluently.
The Mary Jones Walk
This walk stretches for a total distance of around 26 miles, but its history is significantly longer than that. The walk is named after a girl called Mary Jones who, back at the very beginning of the 19th century, walked the entire distance of the route barefoot to Bala, in order to buy herself a Bible.
National White Water Centre
The National White Water Centre is the main Welsh white water training centre and the home of white water rafting and kayaking in the UK. Based on the River Tryweryn in Snowdonia National Park, the water levels are dam-controlled so the rapids rage year-round and the river conditions are consistently reliable.