Please click here for more information. Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve Bethesda, Gwynedd This reserve is a classic example of a landscape which was sculptured by ice thousands of years ago. Many maintain that it is also a prime example of a nature reserve and it was the very first to be designated in Wales, back in 1954. Rare arctic-alpine plants grow on the cliffs and the first of these to appear as the winter snows melt is the pretty purple saxifrage. Cwm Idwal is also a place to see upland birds - for example, the ring ouzel, wheatear and peregrine. The whole valley is a playground for climbers and busy mountain routes pass through the reserve. It is also used extensively as an outdoor classroom by pupils and students. The Countryside Council for Wales is committed to creating opportunities for everyone to enjoy the countryside. National Nature Reserves are no exception. On some reserves the Countryside Council for Wales has provided additional paths. On others, access on foot is unrestricted and visitors are welcome to wander freely. Where possible, the Countryside Council also provide facilities to add to visitors' enjoyment of reserves such as bird hides, information points, guided walks and displays, and facilities for the disabled. Signs at entrances welcome visitirs to each reserve and provide basic information.       Reset Map Position About our location: Between Bethesda (5 miles) and Capel Currig (4.6 miles) on the A5, parking spaces are by Idwal Cottage Youth Hostel, opposite Llyn Ogwen. Safety: The Countryside Council for Wales makes every attempt to ensure that your visit to a reserve is enjoyable and safe. But visitors should also be aware of their own safety. Please watch out for hazards and wear appropriate clothes and footwear for your visit. This work was commissioned by the Countryside Council for Wales as part of its programme of research into sustaining natural beauty, wildlife and outdoor enjoyment in rural Wales and its inshore waters.    Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve Bethesda, Gwynedd  Telephone  Website	Accommodation Beaches Events Restaurants Click on the channels above to get information on areas covered by the zoomable maps.