The best road cycling routes around Alwen Reservoir

There are over 9 road cycling routes around Alwen Reservoir listed on komoot, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the Hiraethog Forest and surrounding moorlands.

The road cycling routes around Alwen Reservoir vary in difficulty. You'll find several moderate routes, often featuring undulating terrain and some elevation gain. For those seeking a greater challenge, there are also difficult routes with substantial climbs, such as the Moel Arthur Climb – Denbigh Castle and Town Walls loop from Cerrigydrudion, which includes over 1,400 meters of climbing.

While the immediate Alwen Trail is shared and suitable for hybrids or mountain bikes due to some rougher sections, the broader area offers well-paved roads that can be enjoyed by families with appropriate fitness levels. The Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Llyn Brenig loop from Cerrigydrudion is a moderate 35.1 km route that could be suitable for more experienced cycling families.

Road cycling routes around Alwen Reservoir offer stunning panoramic views across the reservoir itself, the vast Hiraethog Forest, and expansive moorlands. On clear days, you can even spot the mountains of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) in the distance. The impressive Alwen Dam, constructed between 1909 and 1921, is also a notable feature.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Alwen Reservoir are designed as loops. For example, the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Denbigh Castle and Town Walls loop from Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre is a challenging 62 km circular route, and the Cafe by the Lake loop from Glasfryn offers a moderate 36.6 km option.

The Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, located less than a mile from Alwen Reservoir, serves as a convenient hub and offers parking facilities. Many routes, such as the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre – Llyn Brenig loop from Gorsedd Bran, often start from or pass by visitor centers with parking.

The area around Alwen Reservoir is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling. During these seasons, you can expect milder weather and clearer views across the moorlands and reservoir. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially as the high position on the moorlands can be exposed.

Yes, the Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, which is very close to Alwen Reservoir, provides excellent facilities including a cafe with views over the lake, toilets, and a shop. Some routes, like the Cafe by the Lake loop from Glasfryn, are even named after nearby establishments, indicating convenient stops.

The Alwen Reservoir area is rich in wildlife. Cyclists might spot curlew, the rare Black Grouse, and Red Squirrels, especially in the surrounding Hiraethog Forest and moorlands. Illustrated panels along some trails provide more information on the local fauna.

Road cyclists frequently praise the varied landscapes, including the vast moorlands, conifer forests, and the impressive Alwen Dam. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to challenging routes with significant climbs, all while enjoying far-reaching views, sometimes even towards Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).

Yes, the Alwen Reservoir area is well-connected. The 'Lakes Link' trail provides an easy 3.1 km path connecting Alwen Reservoir to the nearby Llyn Brenig, which has its own 9.5-mile route. The 'Two Lakes Trail' further expands options, covering 22.5 km and encompassing both Alwen and Llyn Brenig reservoirs, offering a longer riding experience.