The best road cycling routes around Pen-Y-Waun
4.4
(33)
2,671
riders
96
rides
Road cycling routes around Pen-Y-Waun traverse a landscape characterized by significant elevation changes, including notable hill climbs and descents. The region features a mix of open roads, reservoir views, and routes that follow canal paths. Road cyclists can expect varied terrain, from challenging ascents to more undulating sections, providing diverse riding experiences. The area's physical features include prominent hills like Rhigos and Bryn Du, alongside water bodies such as Talybont Reservoir.
Best road cycling routes around Pen-Y-Waun
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.7
(6)
67
riders
42.1km
02:16
790m
790m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
133
riders
98.1km
05:08
1,580m
1,580m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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59
riders
48.9km
02:15
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
44
riders
77.5km
03:53
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
34
riders
95.6km
04:22
950m
950m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
A good pit-stop when you are out riding with an old guy called Peter James. Sometimes he'll get the cakes in!
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What an absolute gem of a climb. One of my favourites !!!
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Good pit-stop and bike security with outside tables and chairs
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Starting in the outskirts of Rhigos, this climb takes you past former mining areas and up to the top of Hirwaun Common. The climb passes the fomer Tower Colliery – which used to be the oldest working deep coal mine in the UK but closed in 2008. The climb gives both a feeling of industrial heritage but later the sweeping views of the Hirwaun Common. The first few km are fairly straight but near the summit, there are two switchback hairpins which add an alpine feel to this long-steady climb.
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As well as the caves, here you have Porth yr Ogof car park, or Cwm Porth car park, to give it its proper name. It's one of the better car parks, with toilets and a small shop. On most days there is also hot food and drinks available. The famous Four Waterfalls walk also starts from here. This is a spectacular walk, and each waterfall is great in its own way. They are Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.
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Nice fast descent from the stone bridge at the bottom of the Blaen y Glyn climb along the west shore of the reservoir.
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Situated in the beautiful wilderness between the Breacon Beacons and the Black Mountain overlooked by the hills of Fan Fawr and Fan Gihirych, Maen Llia is a truly massive sliver of rock. While it is over 3.5 metres tall and nearly 3 metres wide, it is only 75 centimetres thick and bears a striking resemblance to a giant Neolithic hand axe. Although it is aligned north to south, the sides of the rock become surprisingly warm to the touch on a sunny day. This must have been an important pass between the hills, both to the local prehistoric population and to the Romans who came this way some 3000 years later - they built the road 'Sarn Helen' right by the stone and the current road still follows part of its course.
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If you don't fancy the long gravel trail on the East shore, this is your tarmac option.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Pen-Y-Waun?
There are nearly 100 road cycling routes around Pen-Y-Waun, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Pen-Y-Waun?
Road cycling routes in Pen-Y-Waun are characterized by significant elevation changes, including notable hill climbs and descents. You'll find a mix of open roads, scenic reservoir views, and sections that follow canal paths, providing diverse riding experiences.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Pen-Y-Waun?
Yes, Pen-Y-Waun offers 6 easy road cycling routes. These routes are generally shorter and have less demanding climbs, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes in Pen-Y-Waun?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 37 difficult routes around Pen-Y-Waun. Routes like the Talybont Reservoir West Shore – Blaen-y-Glyn Climb loop from Aberdare, which covers 61.1 miles with substantial climbing, or the Glynneath Hill Climb – Aberdulais Stone Bridge loop from Aberdare, are excellent choices for advanced riders.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Pen-Y-Waun?
Many of the routes in Pen-Y-Waun are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Rhigos to Bryn Du loop from Aberdare and the Aberdulais Stone Bridge – Neath Canal Path and Lock loop from Penywaun.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the road cycling routes?
The region offers several scenic spots. You can find routes that pass by beautiful waterfalls such as Sgwd Yr Eira, Sgwd Uchaf Clun-Gwyn Waterfall, and Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall. The Porth Yr Ogof Cave – Maen Llia Standing Stone loop from Hirwaun also takes you past interesting natural landmarks.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Pen-Y-Waun?
The road cycling routes in Pen-Y-Waun are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging hill climbs, the stunning reservoir vistas, and the unique experience of riding along canal paths.
Are there any routes that follow canal paths?
Yes, some routes incorporate sections along canal paths. A notable example is the Aberdulais Stone Bridge – Neath Canal Path and Lock loop from Penywaun, which offers a different kind of scenery and historical features.
What is the typical duration for a road cycling route in Pen-Y-Waun?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. For instance, a moderate route like the Rhigos to Bryn Du loop from Aberdare (26.2 miles) typically takes around 2 hours 16 minutes, while longer, more difficult routes can take 4-5 hours or more.
What are the prominent hills or climbs in the Pen-Y-Waun area for road cyclists?
The region is known for prominent hills such as Rhigos and Bryn Du, which feature in many challenging routes. These climbs offer significant elevation gain and are a key characteristic of road cycling in Pen-Y-Waun.
Can I find routes that offer views of reservoirs?
Absolutely. The landscape around Pen-Y-Waun includes water bodies like Talybont Reservoir. Routes such as the Talybont Reservoir West Shore – Blaen-y-Glyn Climb loop from Aberdare provide scenic sections along the reservoir.
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