Wales
Craig-y-llyn
622M
2041FT
About Craig-y-llyn
Situated at the western edge of the Cadair Idris massif, this rocky summit overlooks the dramatic Mawddach estuary. Reaching 622 metres, it offers a quieter alternative to the busier main peaks. The terrain transitions from grassy slopes to craggy outcrops, providing a rugged feel typical of this spectacular corner of southern Eryri.
Key Statistics
Rank
147th Highest in Wales
Parent Range
Snowdonia
Prominence
?
132.2m
Nearest Town
Llanfihangel-y-pennant
Geology
You are walking on a foundation of ancient hardened mud and tough rock that formed when molten material cooled deep underground.
Find It
OS Grid Reference
SH665119
Latitude
52.6883°N
Longitude
3.9765°W
Did You Know?
- •The name Craig-y-llyn translates from Welsh as 'the rock of the lake.' This refers to Llyn Cyri, a small, quiet tarn tucked into a glacial hollow on the hill's northern flank.
- •From the summit, walkers are treated to a spectacular perspective of the Mawddach Estuary as it opens into Cardigan Bay, with the rugged, heather-clad silhouettes of the Rhinogydd range clearly visible to the north.
- •As a Hewitt and Nuttall, it is a significant objective for peak baggers, yet it remains relatively overlooked compared to its famous neighbour, Penygader, which sits just two miles along the high ridge to the east.
- •The western slopes provide an excellent vantage point to look down upon Craig yr Aderyn (Bird Rock), an ancient hillfort site famous for being one of the few inland nesting sites for cormorants.
- •Despite its respectable height and status, Craig-y-llyn is primarily used by locals as a strategic retreat whenever the main paths of the Cadair range become busy enough to require a traffic warden.