The best gravel rides around Llanwrtyd Wells
4.8
(5)
100
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking around Llanwrtyd Wells offers routes through the heart of Mid Wales, bordered by the Cambrian Mountains and Epynt Hills. The terrain features extensive networks of forestry tracks, challenging single tracks, and old drovers' roads. Riders can expect varied landscapes including thick woodlands along the River Irfon and routes around the Llyn Brianne Reservoir. This region provides a mix of remote moorland and scenic trails suitable for gravel biking.
Best gravel bike trails around Llanwrtyd Wells
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.0
(1)
38
riders
50.4km
04:05
1,120m
1,110m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
riders
60.4km
04:38
1,280m
1,280m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3
riders
65.3km
05:07
1,370m
1,370m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
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
Popular around Llanwrtyd Wells
GBDURO 2021 — Gravel racing Land's End to John O'Groats
Bikepacking the length of Wales from Worms Head to Great Orme
Clear rivers, fresh lakes and waterfalls — British wild swim spots by bike
MTB Trails around Llanwrtyd Wells
Hiking around Llanwrtyd Wells
Cycling around Llanwrtyd Wells
Running Trails around Llanwrtyd Wells
Road Cycling Routes around Llanwrtyd Wells
Other adventures around Llanwrtyd Wells
Tips from the Community
Cwm R MTB trail is completely blocked at top end due to hundreds of wind fallen trees this winter. Please consider before as you can not navigate loop.
1
0
It was a truly stunning spot to take in the scenery from this elevated panoramic viewpoint. Highly recommended.
0
0
A short climb up from the road brings you to the Dam and carpark, there is no access over the Dam itself. But you do get a good view over the spillway and valley below.
0
0
Built in 1913 the Rhandirmwyn Bridge links the two sides of the Towy valley by this rivetted girder road bridge. On the southern side you'll find the Towy Bridge Inn, a lovely riverside pub.
1
0
THE TALE OF THE WELSH “ROBIN HOOD” Known as Twm Siôn Cati Twm Siôn Cati is a historically known figure in Welsh folklore. A tale recounted by Meyrick recalls how Twm was asked by a poor man to steal a pitcher for him. They went together to a merchant where Twm started belittling the man's wares. Having told his friend secretly to take the pitcher of his choice, Twm distracted the merchant by telling him there was a hole in one of the pitchers, which the man denied. Twm desired him to put his hand in the pitcher to test it and the man still denied there was a hole. Twm then asked him how, if there was no hole, could he have put his hand inside? By this time his friend had disappeared with his pitcher, undetected. A tale from Prichard's book involves an occasion when Twm is staying in an inn overnight and realises other people are planning to rob him the following day after he sets off. He has a large sum of money with him. The following morning he behaves as though his money is in the pack-saddle of his horse. When the highwayman catches up, Twm drops the saddle in the middle of a pool. The highwayman wades into the pool to fetch it, Twm takes the opportunity to make off with the highwayman's horse. A complication arises because the horse responds to the voice of the highwayman crying "Stop!" Luckily Twm, in terror, happens to shout a word which makes the horse gallop on again, and he is conveyed to safety. Another tale recounts how Twm waylaid a rich squire, who was accompanied by his daughter, Twm was so smitten with her that he returned her jewellery to her and attempted to woo her, against her father's opposition and, initially, her own. One full moon shortly after the robbery, he crept to her window, roused her from sleep, caught her hand at the window and kissed it, refusing to let her go until she promised to marry him. She wouldn't promise so Twm drew his dagger, drew blood on her wrist and threatened to sever her hand unless she assented to marriage forthwith. She agreed to marry him and she kept her hand. Their marriage followed soon after, despite her father's views and the directness of Twm's courtship methods. The girl was supposedly the widow of the sheriff of Carmarthen. Through this marriage Twm is supposed to have gained respectability, eventually becoming a justice of the peace, sitting in judgement on others, a position he held until his death aged 79.
1
0
More stunning forestry gravel that links the Tregaron mountain road over towards Tyn y Cornel hostel.
0
0
This attractive RSPB site has a circular footpath adjacent to a river with beautiful rock cascades and old mossy trees. It is also home to the Twm Sion Cati's cave. All worth a look off of the bike.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Llanwrtyd Wells?
Llanwrtyd Wells offers a diverse gravel biking experience, with routes traversing extensive networks of forestry tracks, challenging single tracks, and historic drovers' roads. You'll encounter varied landscapes, from thick woodlands along the River Irfon to remote moorland and scenic paths around the Llyn Brianne Reservoir. The terrain can range from tranquil, undulating lanes to mountainous routes in the Cambrian Mountains and Epynt Hills.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Llanwrtyd Wells area?
There are nearly a dozen gravel bike routes available around Llanwrtyd Wells on komoot, catering to various skill levels. Most of these are classified as difficult, offering significant challenges for experienced riders.
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel bike routes in Llanwrtyd Wells?
While many routes in Llanwrtyd Wells are rated as difficult, there is at least one moderate route available. The region is generally known for its challenging terrain, with 8 out of 9 listed routes being difficult. For those new to gravel biking, it's advisable to start with the moderate options or consider shorter sections of the more challenging trails.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along the gravel bike trails?
Many gravel routes offer stunning views and pass by significant natural and man-made features. You can explore areas around the Llyn Brianne Dam and reservoir, which is also a focal point for red squirrel conservation. Other highlights include the Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, the Gravel Path Along Claerwen Reservoir, and the challenging Devil's Staircase Climb for those seeking a significant ascent.
Are there any routes that feature the Llyn Brianne Reservoir?
Yes, the Llyn Brianne Reservoir is a prominent feature in several routes. For instance, the difficult The Towy Bridge Inn – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Cilycwm (60.4 km) and the challenging View of Llyn Brianne – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Rhandirmwyn (71.2 km) both offer spectacular views around the reservoir and its dam.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Llanwrtyd Wells?
The region's diverse terrain is enjoyable throughout much of the year. However, for the most pleasant conditions, late spring to early autumn (May to October) is generally recommended, offering milder weather and less chance of challenging winter conditions on the remote moorlands and mountainous routes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for higher elevations.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes in Llanwrtyd Wells?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Llanwrtyd Wells are designed as loops. Examples include the difficult Super Steep Climb – Forest Track loop from Pwll Yr Hyddod (50.4 km) and the Chrychan Forest – Singletrack Gravel Path loop from Esgair Fwyog Picnic Site (20.8 km), which offer varied terrain and return you to your starting point.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Llanwrtyd Wells?
The gravel biking routes in Llanwrtyd Wells are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Nearly 100 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the challenging terrain, remote wilderness experience, and the stunning natural beauty of the Cambrian Mountains and Epynt Hills.
Are there any routes that follow old drovers' roads?
Yes, Llanwrtyd Wells is crisscrossed by old drovers' roads that are now utilized for cycling. A notable route is the difficult Old Drovers' Road to Tregaron – Capel Soar y Mynydd loop from Cefn Fannog (38.0 km), which offers a quiet journey through the countryside.
Where can I find more information about Llanwrtyd Wells as a destination?
Llanwrtyd Wells is known as the smallest town in Wales and a hub for outdoor adventure. For more general information about the town and its unique events, you can visit the official tourism website for Wales: visitwales.com.
What kind of fitness level is required for gravel biking in this region?
Given that most routes are rated as difficult, a very good fitness level is generally required for gravel biking around Llanwrtyd Wells. Many trails feature significant elevation gains, such as the Super Steep Climb – Forest Track loop from Pwll Yr Hyddod with over 1100 meters of ascent, and can be quite long, demanding considerable endurance.
Most popular routes around Llanwrtyd Wells
Most popular attractions around Llanwrtyd Wells
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
