Lake Vyrnwy, known as Llyn Efyrnwy in Welsh, stands as a pristine artificial reservoir created in 1888 to supply the City of Liverpool with a consistent flow of fresh water. Nestled just below Snowdonia in Powys County, Mid Wales, this expansive 1,122-acre lake remains under the care of Severn Trent Water and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Not only does Lake Vyrnwy continue to provide pure water to Liverpool, but it also serves as a haven for recreational activities and the discovery of the remarkable Welsh landscape. Despite being the second largest reservoir in Wales, Lake Vyrnwy is a secluded gem with only a handful of towns dotting its nearly 12-mile shoreline. This tranquil setting offers visitors a retreat into nature’s peace. The lake’s many activities include fishing, sailing, canoeing, rock climbing, cycling, and horseback riding. An easy cycling path encircles the lake, treating riders to stunning vistas of mountains and dense forests. The defining feature of Lake Vyrnwy is its remarkable dam. Constructed between 1881 and 1888, this large stone barrier pioneered in the United Kingdom, diverging from traditional earthen embankment dams. The ornate structure encompasses over 25 arches and two towers, each embellished with four corner turrets and rising 13 feet above the road. One unique aspect of the Vyrnwy dam is its design, allowing water to cascade over its crest rather than the sides. Nestled at the dam’s base rests the Stilling Basin, safeguarding the foundation from the erosive force of the falling water. A significant hurdle during the planning of the Vyrnwy Reservoir was the village of Llanwddyn, which was at risk of submersion as the reservoir was filled. This entire settlement had to be relocated and rebuilt downstream before construction on the dam could commence. With its quaint cafes and gift stores, Llanwddyn, a community of 300 inhabitants, attracts travelers who are eager to explore the local attractions of Snowdonia National Park, the Cambrian and Berwyn Mountains. During dry periods, glimpses of the original Llanwddyn structures can be seen as the reservoir level drops.,The West and East Towers atop the Lake Vyrnwy dam release compensation water into the River Vyrnwy to maintain its flow, once blocked off by the dam’s construction. The river flows eastward for roughly 39.7 miles before merging with the River Severn near Melverley. Depending on downstream needs, these towers may release up to 10 million gallons of water daily. Within the West Tower lies an electrical generator utilized before modern power lines reached Llanwddyn in the 1960s. Preceding the Lake Vyrnwy dam stands the reservoir’s straining tower, which was erected concurrently with the dam’s construction. This gothic tower, standing 210 feet tall with a copper-clad roof, strains water through a fine mesh before embarking on a 68-mile aqueduct to Liverpool. Serving as a crucial part of the water infrastructure, the tower remains a notable landmark in the region. In addition to its function as a reservoir, Lake Vyrnwy is designated a National Nature Reserve. Managing a vast 16,000 acres surrounding the lake, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds oversees various bird habitats. It hides where rare species like the peregrine falcon, pied flycatcher, and wood warbler can be spotted. The reserve teems with around 90 bird species, sheltering Wales’s largest expanse of heather moorland. Following its completion, Lake Vyrnwy was stocked with 400,000 Loch Leven trout, now interspersed with a mix of wild brown trout, stocked brown trout, and rainbow trout – a delight for angling enthusiasts. With numerous boat launches, the lake beckons fishermen and boaters alike. Fly fishing is a popular pastime on its shores and from boats bobbing on its clear waters. Lake Vyrnwy is fed by a network of 31 streams, waterfalls, and rivers, with Rhiwargor serving as a scenic hub on its northern fringe. Here, the rivers Afon Eiddew and Afon Naedroedd converge, culminating in the spectacular Rhiwargor Waterfall cascading down the heather-clad slopes into the lake. A trail leads to the waterfall’s base, offering a refreshing spot for a picnic. Accommodations around Lake Vyrnwy span holiday cottages, bed and breakfasts, hotels, camping sites, and caravan parks that cater to various preferences. Many self-catering options feature farm stays with private trails and beaches, which are ideal for nature enthusiasts interested in cycling, hiking, and bird watching. The 12-mile lakeside trail appeals to cyclists and walkers, with bike rentals available for those exploring the surroundings. Additional vacation rentals and real estate opportunities lie near Snowdonia National Park, presenting a gateway to Wales’ natural marvels. One highlight beckoning visitors to Lake Vyrnwy is the Llanwddyn Sculpture Trail below the dam. Initiated in 1995, this collection of over 50 wooden sculptures crafted by master sculptors from across the globe dots the trail’s stops and clearings, offering a unique artistic encounter amidst nature. Set against the glorious Berwyn Mountains, visiting Lake Vyrnwy promises an unforgettable stay in Northern Wales. Whether seeking cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, the serene appeal of this crystal-clear lake invites guests to discover a relatively untouched and captivating locale.