It underwent a major transformation in recent years, with the introduction of waterspots facilities and a timber play area for children. But there’s still plenty of tranquility to be found at this gorgeous Welsh beauty spot.
Hidden among the spectacular mountains of the Mawr, north of Swansea, lie two stunning reservoirs. The Upper and Lower Lliw reservoirs are open all year round and offer a great day out for couples, families, thrill-seekers, and those looking for a peaceful walk.
Whether you want to try your hand at paddleboarding on a picturesque reservoir surrounded by woodlands or take a short stroll followed by a cosy cup of coffee and a slice of cake at the nearby café there’s something for everyone at this stunning destination. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What’s On newsletter here
Start your walk at the lower reservoir and find many different trails suitable for all ages and abilities
(Image: John Myers)
A leafy woodland walk at the reservoir in autumn
(Image: John Myers)
The Lower Lliw Reservoir is a 20-acre reservoir north of Swansea. Watersports and a two-mile circular walk are on offer as well as a convenient car park, café, and natural timber play area. Walk the Lower Lliw Trail and you’ll also discover beautiful hand-carved Welsh oak sculptures of native wildlife.
These sweet wood carvings include a red kite, rabbit, grey heron, trout, hedgehog, otter, owl. and Pipistrelle bats. Keep an eye out for the real and often-rare flora and fauna at the reservoirs too. You might even spot a kestrel, raven, red kite, or curlew.
The circular walk around the reservoir is an easy two-mile walk which takes around one to two hours according to Visit Swansea Bay. The dam holding the reservoir was finished in 1867 but was never completely watertight. This was corrected with a rebuild 112 years later and the reservoir originally supplied water to Swansea. The lower reservoir car park is open daily until 6pm, according to Swansea Counil. Parking fees apply and payment is possible by card only. You can access the car park by taking junction 46 of the M4 then travelling north towards Felindre and following signs to the reservoir.
In the summer the tranquil waters of the lower reservoir make the perfect conditions for learning to kayak or paddleboard
(Image: John Myers)
If you prefer watersports over a leisurely walk you’re in the right place because Swansea Adventures is based at the lower reservoir. The watersport specialists are based near the car park and operate on the peaceful waters of the reservoir making it the perfect spot to learn to kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Swansea Adventures is currently only open at weekends. You can find out more information here about stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, including lessons and self-launching. There are other activities available like archery, bush craft and climbing.
Just look at this super-cosy log fire
(Image: John Myers)
A look inside Lliw Cafe where coffee, cake, breakfast, and lunch is served
(Image: John Myers)
If just thinking about all that action made you hungry or ready for a quiet sit down you’ll be pleased to know there is a cosy family-run café on site. Snuggle up at Lliw Café by the warm log fire and enjoy a coffee and a cake or even a spot of breakfast or lunch. There’s also a lovely gift shop inside the café offering Welsh jewellery, mugs, and more. They resume their normal opening hours on Friday, January 3. See here for more information
Outdoor seating is perfect for the summer months as you can have a cuppa and some cake while watching the little ones
(Image: John Myers)
Next to the café you’ll find a gorgeous natural play area constructed entirely in timber. There’s a climbing platform, suspension bridge, rope crossings, and balance beams to keep the kids busy. Parents or carers can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat in the outdoor seating area of the café while the little ones have fun in the fresh air. Local Swansea artist Ami Marsden created a series of activity stations in the play area including a huge bug hotel and they are all adorable.
A historical building is situated in the Upper Lliw Reservoir
(Image: John Myers)
The dramatic setting is filled with colour
(Image: John Myers)
While a bit trickier to access the Upper Lliw Reservoir is well worth the trek. If you are able to try out the Two Reservoirs Trail you can discover the peaceful quiet of the upper reservoir and walk some of the Gower Way long-distance footpath. Starting from the lower reservoir the road is “well-surfaced” and “gently inclined”, according to Welsh Water, and suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and bicycles. But take care and ensure children are safe at all times on the access road to the upper reservoir as residents, service and maintenance vehicles use the road, Welsh Water added.
The Valve tower at the reservoir is a Grade II-listed building and a beautiful attraction. It has been listed due to its special architectural interest as a particularly fine neo-classical tower. The stunning views across the valley will take your breath away.