Llyn Tegid, known in English as Bala Lake, is Wales' largest natural lake, situated to the southwest of the small town of Bala in the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. The lake measures approximately 3.5 miles long and up to three-quarters of a mile wide, covering around 1,100 acres. It lies between the Berwyn, Aran, and Arenig mountains, and the name Llyn Tegid translates roughly as "Lake of Serenity." The lake is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is notably free from large motorised boats, making it well-suited to human-powered craft.

A watersports permit is required to paddle on Llyn Tegid, payable to the Eryri National Park Authority via the car parking machine at the foreshore car park. The primary access point is the Llyn Tegid Foreshore car park on Pensarn Road, Bala (LL23 7SR), located on the southern edge of town just past the Leisure Centre. A second access point is at Parcio Llangywer (Llangower) on the B4403 (LL23 7DB). Both car parks charge fees. Facilities at the foreshore include parking, picnic areas, toilets, and showers. The shoreline is notably shallow at the water's edge, which may require craft with under-stern rudders to launch from the pontoon rather than directly off the beach.

The recommended paddling route is a circular 8-mile trip along the length of the lake and back, typically taking 2 to 4 hours. The route heads southwest from the foreshore car park toward the far end of the lake, where it is possible to land for a rest before returning. Paddlers can choose to follow the shoreline or take a more direct line down the centre depending on conditions and traffic on the water. The lake can become choppy and rough in windy conditions, and afternoon breezes are a noted feature, so earlier starts are generally preferable.

The lake holds significant ecological and cultural interest. It is home to the gwyniad, one of the rarest freshwater fish species in Eryri, found nowhere else in the world. Historically, the lake is associated with the legend of Tegid Foel, a king whose submerged kingdom is said to lie beneath its waters. The surrounding mountain scenery provides a dramatic backdrop throughout any paddle on the lake.