View of Bwlch Mountain from Ogmore Vale
View of Bwlch Mountain from Ogmore Vale
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View of Bwlch Mountain from Ogmore Vale
Road cycling
5.0
(55)
Tips
May 31, 2020
Road cycling
August 13, 2021
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Bwlch Mountain from Ogmore Vale
5.0
(2)
215
riders
70.9km
03:21
900m
900m
Embark on the Bwlch Climb from Porthcawl loop, a moderate road cycling route that takes you through the changing landscapes of Afan Forest Park. You will cover 44.1 miles (70.9 km) and gain 2938 feet (895 metres) of elevation, with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 20 minutes. As you ascend, the scenery shifts from dense forests to expansive, green hillsides, offering broad views across the Southeast Valleys of Wales, with wind turbines marking a distinct visual landmark near the summit.
When planning your ride, you will find the Bwlch climb itself features a narrow two-lane road in excellent condition, often praised by cyclists for its smooth surface. The route from Porthcawl is primarily on well-paved roads, making for an enjoyable ride. There are no specific warnings regarding road closures or permits for this route, so you can focus on the ride ahead.
This route offers a well-known Welsh climb that attracts many road cyclists to South-East Wales. The Bwlch is considered an iconic ascent in the region, recognized for its rewarding challenge and the vistas it provides. It is a popular choice if you are looking for a classic road cycling experience in this part of Wales.
5.0
(4)
96
riders
43.9km
02:15
750m
740m
This 27.3-mile (43.9 km) racebike loop from Sarn offers a moderate road ride with 2446 feet (746 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You will start in a less remarkable setting, but the scenery quickly changes as you cycle through thick forest sections. Soon, the views open up to reveal green, steep hillsides, providing consistent and expansive Welsh valley vistas. Near the summit of the Bwlch climb, you will pass a distinctive wind turbine field, adding to the unique landscape. The road surfaces are generally well-paved, making for a smooth ride on a narrow two-lane road with mild traffic.
This route is considered a moderate road ride that requires good fitness. The Bwlch climb itself averages a 5.3% gradient over 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles), but be prepared for a more challenging initial section where the first 1.5 kilometers average 8.5%. Plan your visit for early spring to late fall, as this is when the route attracts many cyclists every weekend.
The Bwlch is a very well-known and highly regarded climb in South-East Wales, recognized for its inclusion in the "100 Greatest Cycling Climbs, Britain." It has been a featured route in numerous road races, hill climbs, and cyclosportives, solidifying its status as one of the most notable hill climbs in the region. This particular loop from Sarn offers one of three distinct routes to reach its summit.
5.0
(1)
51
riders
93.2km
04:28
1,090m
1,090m
Embark on a challenging road cycling loop from Cardiff Castle, covering 57.9 miles (93.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3593 feet (1095 metres). This difficult route offers a rewarding journey through diverse Welsh landscapes, from traffic-free cycle paths near Cardiff to stunning valley views and more desolate, scenic vistas leading up to the Bwlch. You will experience a variety of terrain, predominantly well-paved roads, but be prepared for some busy, narrow sections without shoulders. The ride is designed for a duration of around 4 hours and 27 minutes, demanding a very good level of fitness.
Planning your ride requires careful consideration due to the route's difficulty. While the trail is mostly on asphalt and other paved surfaces, some parts may require defensive cycling. You can find opportunities for coffee stops and places to regroup along the way, such as in Talbot Green. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight, especially during spring to fall when the Bwlch climb is popular. Ensure your road bike is in excellent condition for this demanding journey.
This loop is renowned among serious cyclists for its iconic Bwlch climb, a legendary ascent in Wales that attracts many riders on weekends. The route also offers a chance to connect with history, potentially passing near Caerphilly Castle and incorporating sections of the Celtic Trail, National Cycle Network Route 4. Expect a substantial workout with a 6-mile exposed ascent on the Bwlch itself, and a brutal hill outside Cymmer reaching 10-12% gradient for about a mile. This trail is a true test of endurance, offering a deep immersion into the Welsh valleys.
Details
Informations
Distance 7.37 km
Uphill 70 m
Downhill 380 m
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Wednesday 6 May
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5°C
39 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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