The best cycling routes in Powys

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle loop from Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake, traversing the high passes of Eryri / Snowdonia National Park. This difficult route spans 34.4 miles (55.4 km) and features a substantial elevation gain of 3059 feet (932 metres), requiring very good fitness and typically taking around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will cycle through dense woodlands, open moorland, and past the expansive reservoir of Lake Vyrnwy, experiencing a landscape of mountains, valleys, and tranquil countryside.

While largely on paved surfaces, be prepared for some unpaved sections where you might need to push your bike. The route includes demanding climbs into the surrounding hills, notably the Hirnant Pass and Bwlch y Groes, which is the highest road pass in Wales. Expect very steep roads and descents, especially near Lake Vyrnwy and Rhiwargor. This loop is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the weather is clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the panoramic views across the Welsh landscape.

This trail is notable for connecting two iconic Welsh lakes via a high mountain pass, offering a true sense of frontier wildness and raw natural beauty. Bwlch y Groes, reaching 1800 feet (546 metres), is not only a challenging climb but also historically significant as a pilgrim route. You will also pass the impressive dam and distinctive straining tower of Lake Vyrnwy, and experience the charming, Welsh-speaking town of Bala by Llyn Tegid, Wales's largest natural lake.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride around Llyn Llanwddyn, also known as the Lake Vyrnwy circuit, a popular route in Powys, Wales. This 11.3 miles (18.2 km) trail takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete, featuring a manageable 652 feet (199 metres) of elevation gain. You will follow well-maintained country lanes, offering consistent views of the water and surrounding dense forests, with the impressive Vyrnwy Dam as a key landmark. The landscape is tranquil, set within the southern foothills of the Berwyn Mountains, providing a picturesque cycling experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with amenities available to enhance your ride. You can find cafes and refreshment stops, especially near the dam and other visitor areas, perfect for a break. If you do not have your own bike, bike hire is available at Llanwddyn, located at the southern end of the lake. The route is generally accessible, making it an ideal choice for a scenic day out on two wheels.

The Around Llyn Llanwddyn trail is highly regarded, boasting an average rating of 4.9 stars from many reviews, highlighting its consistent and stunning views. The Lake Vyrnwy area is not just beautiful; it is also a national nature reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), jointly managed by the RSPB. This makes it an important location for birdwatching and enjoying diverse wildlife, adding another layer of interest to your touring bicycle adventure.

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure with the Taff Trail and Talybont Reservoir Loop, a difficult route spanning 39.4 miles (63.4 km). You will conquer 2607 feet (794 metres) of elevation gain, with an estimated duration of 4 hours and 43 minutes. As you pedal, you will encounter continuous views over the Talybont Reservoir, framed by impressive mountain backdrops and expansive moorland sections, offering a diverse landscape through the heart of South Wales.

When planning your visit, be aware that the terrain varies significantly, including old railway paths, forest roads, and country lanes. Some sections, particularly around the reservoirs, can be rough and stony, so a touring bike equipped with wider tires, such as 38mm, is highly recommended for comfort and stability. You have the option to navigate the bumpy, gravelly forestry tracks on the eastern side of Talybont Reservoir or choose the quieter country road on the western side.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Beyond the scenic reservoir, you will pass significant historical sites like the Brynich Aqueduct and the Pontsarn Viaduct, which add a rich cultural layer to your ride. The trail also guides you along tranquil canal towpaths and through peaceful woodlands, providing a varied experience that showcases the region's unique heritage and diverse ecosystems.

Embark on the Elan Valley and Pont-rhyd-y-groes loop from Rhayader for a challenging touring cycling adventure. This difficult 42.3-mile (68.1 km) route takes you through the rugged Cambrian Mountains, offering spectacular views across the Elan Valley, often called the "Welsh Lake District." You will encounter iconic Victorian dams and expansive reservoirs, alongside open moorland and tranquil woodlands, with a substantial 3750 feet (1143 metres) of elevation gain.

This loop demands very good fitness, typically taking around 5 hours and 34 minutes to complete. The terrain is mostly paved, but be prepared for some unpaved segments with loose gravel that can be difficult to ride. Starting from Rhayader, this route is designed for cyclists ready to tackle significant climbs and varied surfaces.

What makes this route unique is its comprehensive exploration of the Elan Valley's vast landscape, combining impressive Victorian engineering with pristine natural wilderness. The region is a significant cycling hub in Mid Wales, known for its dramatic natural beauty and diverse cycling experiences. You will experience the upper reaches of the River Wye and the distinctive blend of history and nature that defines this area.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through the Brecon Beacons National Park with the 3 Reservoirs loop. This difficult 48.6-mile (78.1 km) route, designed to take around 5 hours and 26 minutes, features a significant 3578 feet (1091 metres) of elevation gain. You will cycle past the beautiful Talybont, Pontsticill, and Llwyn-onn reservoirs, enjoying expansive views of the water features and surrounding hills. Be prepared for a mix of paved surfaces and some unpaved or gravelly sections, including a notable gravelly climb near Talybont Reservoir.

This loop is best suited for touring cyclists with very good fitness due to its considerable climbs, especially the notorious Devil's Elbow. While the route is primarily paved, some segments, like the Devil's Elbow itself, have a crumbling surface and neglected barriers, so suitable tires are recommended. You might also encounter cattle grids along the way. Planning your visit for good weather will enhance your experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the rugged scenery and isolated wilderness.

The Devil's Elbow is the defining feature of this trail, a legendary and brutal ascent known for its steep gradients, averaging 10% with sections reaching 14% and even over 30% on its vicious switchbacks. Conquering this climb is a significant achievement for cyclists, often featured in events like the Dragon Ride sportive. Beyond the challenge, you will discover ancient landmarks like the Maen Llia Standing Stone near the summit, adding a unique historical layer to the diverse landscapes of rolling moorlands and river valleys.

Prepare for a difficult touring cycling journey on the Hay on Wye to Abergavenny loop, a route that challenges you with 3766 feet (1148 metres) of elevation gain over 51.3 miles (82.6 km). This ride, estimated to take 5 hours and 44 minutes, guides you through the dramatic landscapes of the Black Mountains. You will experience lush valleys and riverine environments along the River Wye, leading to expansive views over Herefordshire. The highlight is the climb to Gospel Pass, Wales' highest paved road, offering panoramic vistas of Hay Bluff and Twmpa.

This touring bicycle route primarily uses quiet country lanes, but be aware that some segments may be unpaved and difficult, potentially requiring you to push your bike. The trail connects the charming book town of Hay-on-Wye with the market town of Abergavenny. These towns offer excellent opportunities for breaks and exploration, allowing you to refuel and discover local attractions along the way.

Beyond the physical challenge, this loop offers a deep dive into the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. You will pass the historic Llanthony Priory ruins, providing a scenic and culturally rich stop amidst your ride. The journey showcases the diverse natural beauty and historical depth of this Welsh region, making it a memorable experience for any touring cyclist.

Embark on a difficult touring cycling loop from Torpantau, exploring the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. This challenging 15.2-mile (24.4 km) route features a mix of paved roads and substantial unpaved sections, including gravel climbs like the one near Talybont Reservoir. You will gain about 1498 feet (457 metres) in elevation, making this a ride for those with very good fitness, taking around 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete.

As you cycle, you will encounter varied terrain, from smooth asphalt to gravel and even some rougher unpaved paths. The trail offers wonderful views across the water at Talybont Reservoir and along the scenic Usk Valley. You can also enjoy tranquil sections along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal's traffic-free towpaths, though be ready to dismount for low bridges.

This loop is notable for its diverse landscape, combining natural beauty with historical elements. Talybont-on-Usk serves as a convenient hub, offering amenities like pubs and cafes. The route integrates parts of the popular Taff Trail and the historic Brinore Tramway, providing connections to a wider network of cycling routes in an area known for its wildlife and dark skies.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through Bannau Brycheiniog National Park with the Brynmawr and Tabont-on-Usk loop. This difficult route spans 36.4 miles (58.6 km) and demands a good fitness level, climbing 2711 feet (826 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes. You will cycle past the expansive Talybont Reservoir, enjoying views of the Usk Valley and the majestic Black Mountains. Expect a mix of terrain as you navigate this scenic journey, offering a true test of your cycling prowess amidst stunning Welsh landscapes.

Your journey begins in Llangynidr, where you will find convenient free parking and toilet facilities to prepare for your ride. While much of the route is paved, be ready for some unpaved sections, singletrack, and paths where you might need to dismount and push your bike. For mid-ride amenities, Talybont-on-Usk serves as a welcoming cycling hub, offering a Bike Hub, cafes, and pubs where you can refuel and rest. Plan your visit to make the most of these practical stops along the way.

This loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical pathways, prominently featuring the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal towpath. You will pass through charming canalside villages such as Talybont-on-Usk and Llangynidr, experiencing peaceful sections alongside the water. The route also takes you by the impressive Pontsticill Reservoir, adding another significant body of water to your scenic tour through this captivating part of Wales.

Embark on a difficult touring bicycle journey through the heart of Wales with the Llyn Clywedog & Hafren Forest loop from Llanidloes. This challenging route spans 17.7 miles (28.5 km) and involves a significant climb of 1744 feet (532 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 1 minute to complete. As you pedal, you will navigate through dense woodlands of Hafren Forest, offering a deep immersion into diverse Welsh landscapes. The trail also skirts the expansive Llyn Clywedog reservoir, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the water. Look out for the impressive Severn Break-its-Neck waterfall, a natural highlight along your ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is known for its relatively traffic-free roads, providing a peaceful cycling experience. You will find several opportunities to pause and rest, such as at the Afon Biga picnic area or a scenic viewpoint situated above the Clywedog dam. The path is predominantly paved, ensuring a smooth ride for most of its duration, with only short unpaved sections to navigate. Consider starting your ride early to make the most of the tranquil conditions.

This area is rich in both natural beauty and historical intrigue. Beyond the stunning reservoir and forest, you might spot local wildlife, including majestic red kites and buzzards soaring overhead. The route also passes the historic abandoned Bryntail mine buildings, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past. This combination of natural and historical elements makes the Llyn Clywedog & Hafren Forest loop a distinctive and rewarding touring bicycle adventure in Mid Wales.