Afon Alwen

The Afon Alwen rises in the uplands of Mynydd Hiraethog in Conwy County Borough. It flows from Llyn Alwen, a natural lake, and soon reaches Cronfa Alwen, a large reservoir built in the 20th century. The river then passes Pentre-llyn-cymmer, where the Afon Brenig joins it from the west.

Further on, the Afon Alwen winds through quiet villages such as Llanfihangel Glyn Myfyr and Betws Gwerful Goch. Near Maerdy it is joined by the Afon Ceirw, a smaller tributary from the east. After crossing open farmland, the river finally meets the Dyfrdwy north of Cynwyd.

Walkers follow the river’s banks for long stretches of unspoilt countryside. The water is clear and shallow in places, with stepping stones and small weirs. In spring, the valley sides are bright with bluebells and wild garlic.