The best MTB trails around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr
4.6
(7)
49
riders
5
rides
Mountain biking around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr offers diverse terrain within the Welsh landscape, characterized by significant mountain peaks, passes, and varied topography. The region features a mix of flat valley bottoms, enclosed farmland, and upland areas with crags and rocky outcrops, providing a range of challenges for mountain bikers. Notable natural features include the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall and scenic lakes like Lake Vyrnwy, which add to the area's appeal. The trails often require good to very good fitness levels, with options ranging…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
riders
42.9km
04:29
1,420m
1,420m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
11
riders
28.8km
02:46
720m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4
riders
32.4km
03:19
1,020m
1,020m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
16.9km
01:30
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
9
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.
1
0
Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
0
0
The track from the East is broken but doable on a gravel bike - I had to push the last few hundred metres. Awkward terrain - large stones - and plenty of puddles - but a fabulous day on 2 wheels!
0
0
There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
0
0
The dam across the Vyrnwy Valley, Montgomeryshire, was the first large masonry dam, and was completed in 1888. Water from the reservoir supplies Liverpool, travelling there along a 70 mile aqueduct. They have a bike hire and cafe in the car part. You can hire a bike to ride around the lake the road surface is great with some spectacular views of the lake and dam. The dam at Lake Vyrnwy is often associated with practice bombing runs for Operation Chastise in The Second World War. Better known as the “Dambusters” raid, Lancasters of 617 Squadron breached the German Möhne and Eder dams and damaged the Sorpe dam in May 1943. However, the association with Lake Vyrnwy seems to be something of a local myth as the dam was never actually used for this purpose. So where did this story originate? It seems that at least one scene in the famous 1955 film, “The Dambusters” was shot at Lake Vyrnwy leading to the mistaken belief that the wartime RAF Lancaster bomber crews practiced there.
3
0
Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.
1
0
Artisans Craft and Coffee shop provides food and drink including hot toasted baguettes, homemade cakes and scones and Kelly's Ice Cream. There is also a bike hire service here if you want to take on the 12 miles (20 km) of scenic road around the lake.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
There are 6 mountain bike trails available around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate to difficult, catering to different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
The terrain around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr is diverse, featuring a mix of flat, low-lying valley bottoms, enclosed farmland on gently sloping ground, and upland areas with crags and rocky outcrops. You can expect varied challenges including climbs, descents, and scenic vistas, often requiring good to very good fitness levels.
Are there any notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while mountain biking around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning features like Lake Vyrnwy Dam, and scenic lakes such as Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala). The famous Pistyll Rhaeadr, Britain's highest single-drop waterfall, is also a significant natural monument in the vicinity.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr?
The mountain bike trails around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 8 reviews. Over 100 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging ascents and expansive views.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes available?
Yes, many of the routes in the area are circular. For example, the Ffridd St Ioan loop from Abertridwr is a moderate 30.2 km circular trail, and the Craig Rhiwarth Descent loop from Pen-y-bont-fawr is a moderate 15.7 km loop directly accessible from the village.
Can I find mountain bike trails that offer views of significant mountain peaks?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by significant mountain peaks and passes. Trails like the difficult Tomen Cefncoch Motte – Craig Rhiwarth Descent loop from Llangynog offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. You can also find highlights like Cadair Berwyn Summit and Cadair Bronwen Summit Cairn in the vicinity.
Are there any moderate mountain bike trails suitable for riders with good fitness?
Yes, there are several moderate trails that are well-suited for riders with good fitness. The Ffridd St Ioan loop from Abertridwr is a popular 30.2 km moderate route with a 450m elevation gain. Another option is the Craig Rhiwarth Descent loop from Pen-y-bont-fawr, a 15.7 km moderate ride.
What is the most challenging mountain bike trail in the Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr area?
The most challenging trail listed is the Tomen Cefncoch Motte – Craig Rhiwarth Descent loop from Llangynog. This difficult 43.2 km route features a substantial 1,420m elevation gain, offering a significant test for experienced mountain bikers.
Can I find mountain bike routes that pass by lakes?
Yes, some routes offer views of the region's lakes. The Giants of Vyrnwy – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Lake Vyrnwy is a 27.5 km trail that leads through the scenic Lake Vyrnwy area, providing beautiful lakeside views.
Are there any mountain bike trails starting directly from Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr village?
Yes, the Craig Rhiwarth Descent loop from Pen-y-bont-fawr is a moderate 15.7 km ride with a 430m elevation gain that is directly accessible from the village, making it convenient for local starts.
Most popular attractions around Pen-Y-Bont-Fawr
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
