Set in the Brecon Beacons National Park is Llangorse Lake, a huge natural lake in South Wales and the second- largest in Wales overall. Also known as Llangors Lake, Lake Syfaddan, or Lyn Syfaddan, this picturesque lake is famous for its rich biodiversity. It’s a popular outdoor spot designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Located in Powys County, about eight miles east of Brecon and west of the Black Mountains, Llangorse Lake offers various water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. The lake’s history includes the remains of a crannog, a small artificial island used as a defensive settlement around 889-893 A.D. This site is steeped in Welsh folklore and legends. With an average depth of 7 to 10 feet, Llangorse Lake has a five-mile shoreline covering 327 acres. Streams and seasonal rains feed it and drain through the Afon Llynfi stream. The surrounding environment includes reed beds, wet woodlands, and meadows, which transform into marshlands during rainy seasons. This habitat supports a variety of plant species like flowering rush, golden dock, and water lilies. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of waterfowl and migratory species, including osprey and terns. Visitors can enjoy the lake’s beauty by walking along the footpath that circles its southern and western shores. Whether for birdwatching, boating, or simply soaking in the natural scenery, Llangorse Lake offers a serene and picturesque escape.
