Nant-y-moch Reservoir
Enjoy a walk along this beautiful reservoir in the Cambrian Mountains. It's a very peaceful place with fine views across the water to the surrounding hills and mountains. The reservoir dates from 1964 and forms part of the Cwm Rheidol hydroelectric power scheme. The headwaters of the reservoir include the source of the River Rheidol.
You can start the walk from the car park next to the dam on the southern side of the water. From here you can pick up a quiet lane running west along the lake. You can follow this round to the northern side of the water where there are some hill climbs with fine views back down to the reservoir. These paths can also take you past Drosgol hill.
The reservoir is located just to the north of Nant Y Arian. The expansive forest has miles of good footpaths and mountain bike trails to try. The highest point in the Cambrian Mountains is located just east of the reservoir at Plynlimon. It's a challenging climb but with the reward of more fine views of the area. Devil's Bridge Falls is also not far away. The spectacular falls include the imposing Jacob's Ladder stone steps and some wonderful scenery.
Nant-y-moch Reservoir Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Nant-y-moch Reservoir Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Nant-y-moch Reservoir OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Nant-y-moch Reservoir Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
To the south there's the Hafod Estate to explore. The National Trust managed estate includes miles of woodland trails through the lovely Ystwyth valley. There's riverside trails, cascading waterfalls, restored gardens and lots of wildlife to see here.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Nant-y-moch reservoir, part of the Cwm Rheidol hydroelectric scheme. Drosgol in the background.
Looking across the middle part of the reservoir towards Cefn yr Esgair.
This spur of the reservoir was totally devoid of water during the hot summer of 2006.
Looking north from Bryn y Beddau. The spur at Maesnant is visible. On the 1987 Pathfinder map it is shown as an island. Beyond that is Banc Llechwedd-mawr.
The upper end of the western arm of the reservoir, seen from the road to Maesnant. In the centre of the picture the channel where the Afon Llechwedd-mawr reaches the reservoir can be seen, with on either side the ridges of Drosgol and Banc Llechwedd Mawr.
The dam is out of view in the far left spur. The lower slope of Drosgol is visible on the right.