Definition: Llyn Cwellyn is a natural freshwater lake located in Gwynedd, North Wales.
Overview: Llyn Cwellyn lies within the Snowdonia National Park, approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) northeast of the village of Nantmor and about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the town of Beddgelert. The lake is situated in a glacial valley, formed during the last ice age. Managed by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, it serves as a reservoir supplying water to nearby areas. The lake is notable for its scenic beauty and tranquil setting, surrounded by hills and moorland.
Etymology/Origin: The name "Llyn Cwellyn" derives from the Welsh language, where "llyn" means "lake." The origin of "Cwellyn" is less certain but may be linked to the nearby River Cwellyn, which flows into the lake. The river's name could stem from a personal or topographical name of early Welsh origin, though the precise etymology is not confirmed.
Characteristics: Llyn Cwellyn covers an area of approximately 1.2 square kilometers (300 acres). It has a maximum depth of around 35 meters (115 feet), making it one of the deeper natural lakes in the region. The outflow from the lake is the Afon Seiont, which eventually flows through Llyn Padarn and into the Menai Strait via the River Seiont. The surrounding area is part of a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), due to its ecological and geological importance. The lake supports populations of brown trout and Arctic char, the latter being a glacial relict species.
Related Topics: Snowdonia National Park, Llyn Padarn, Afon Seiont, Glacial lakes of Wales, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Arctic char, Reservoirs in Wales.