Parts of Wales' 'most beautiful lake' to remain out of bounds until next year
In the hours before the storm struck, a rare red 'take action' weather warning was issued for parts of Wales. Some 95,000 homes in the country were left without power after severe winds brought down swathes of pylons on December 7, 2024.
Across the country, miles of forest roads, walking trails and mountain bike routes were left obstructed by thousands of fallen trees and branches. At Vyrnwy, much of the circular B4393 road was left impassable, along with many of its trails. Visitors were urged not to visit.
An estimated 60ha (148 acres) of trees were uprooted, prompting an extensive clean-up operation. In April, the Rhiwargor car park – near the stunning Rhiwargor Waterfall – was finally reopened. To date, 1,395 tonnes of timber have been removed.
However Hafren Dyfrdwy, which manages the site, said there was still a 'huge amount' of work to be done, including reopening the lakeside road.
A spokesperson said: 'Due to ongoing work and environmental factors, this is likely not to reopen until spring 2026, as Hafren Dyfrdwy continues to work with the local authority on this closure.'
Despite the removal of 'thousands' of trees, the company said some walking routes remain inaccessible. Visitors are being warned to keep out of these areas while clearance work continues. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone
Griff Watkins, Lake Vyrnwy's visitor site manager, said: 'Storm Darragh left a lasting mark on Lake Vyrnwy, and while the scale of the damage was significant, the dedication of our teams has been just as remarkable.
'We've made great progress and there is still plenty to do on site. There's still a long road ahead and environmental factors also mean there are certain areas of the site where the pace of work has had to slow down.'
He said Llyn Vyrnwy is considered Wales' most beautiful lake and it is 'still a wonderful place to visit'. Over the summer holidays people are being encouraged to visit the lake and enjoy the areas that are now open.
Main car parks and toilet blocks are open, as are trails near the village. Lake Vyrnwy Hotel, Artisan's café and The Chocolate Cabin continue to trade.
Every weekend over summer (Fri-Mon), Blue Monday will be serving coffee at Rhiwargor car park. And during the summer holidays, a free treasure trail near the visitor centre is offering goodies and a prize draw.
Mr Watkins added: 'As we head into the summer season, we're excited to welcome visitors to enjoy the beauty of the reservoir. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
"We just ask that over the coming weeks and months that everyone checks which areas are open before setting out and continues to support us as restoration work continues.'
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