7 of the Best Cycling Routes in Wales
From craggy mountain roads to winding coastline trails, there are plenty of beautiful cycling routes in Wales. The country is simply brimming with stunning views of nature, sea and land that you can take in as you pedal your way through the vast landscape.
Whether you’re an expert rider or someone looking for a gentler cycle, there are locations for everybody up and down the country that are all just ready and waiting to be explored.
Read on to discover some of the best cycling routes in Wales that are not to be missed.
1. Heritage Coast, Vale of Glamorgan
Taking in some of the best sites among the Vale of Glamorgan, the heritage coast cycling trail promises stunning horizon views of one of South Wales’ best-kept secrets. Cyclists will pass sights such as Ogmore Castle, Nash Point Lighthouse and the golden sands of Glamorgan’s many beaches.
The area is also popular among ramblers, meaning there is a lot of relatively flat paths that are easily accessible on two wheels. Anyone with love for the countryside will enjoy the route’s natural ambience of wooded valleys, spectacular wildlife and secluded coves.
In total, the route lasts for around seven miles making it a leisurely cycle that anyone can enjoy.
2. Lôn Cambria
Lôn Cambria is a delightfully peaceful journey through the Cambrian Mountains that takes in some of Wales’ most iconic landscapes and quaint towns.
Throughout the journey, hills gradually unfold to reveal more and more beautiful moments that are tough to replicate. Memorable highlights of the 113-mile route include stretching views from the top of the Long Mountain, imposing dams at the Elan Valley reservoir and the friendly towns of Rhayader, Welshpool and Newtown.
The route concludes on the end of the Aberystwyth pier which provides a beautiful opportunity to raise a glass to a successful trip through Mid Wales.
3. Peregrine Path
If you’re searching for a simple cycling route that the whole family can enjoy, look no further than the Peregrine Path.
Starting in the historic market town of Monmouth, with its plethora of old-time pubs and quaint shops, the route winds alongside the beautiful backdrop of River Wye and taking cyclists past the Kymin, a well-known picnic haunt set within nine acres of glorious parkland.
The eight-mile route concludes near a steady climb towards Symonds Yat Rock, where nesting falcons can be spotted over the vast landscape.
4. Cliff and Castle, Pembrokeshire
Only a short section of Britain’s standalone coastal national park is open to cyclists, but the short route promises immeasurable beauty and unforgettable scenery.
The wide roads are littered with towering cliffs, remote enchanted hamlets and sweeping landscapes. The route begins in Pembroke and passes imposing Norman fortresses and Castlemartin Firing Range, which are an excellent example of the rich history of the country.
It is also worth taking the time to visit Cardigan Castle. The 900-year-old Grade I listed building hosts a range of fascinating exhibitions all year round and is the birthplace of Wales’ biggest cultural festival – The Eisteddfod.
5. Bwlch y Groes
Bwlch y Groes is a challenging but rewarding cycle that will be a real test for any experienced cyclist and without doubt one of the best cycling routes in Wales.
The route is the second-highest public road mountain pass in Wales, with a summit altitude of 545 metres over a distance of just over 2 miles. Not for the faint-hearted, it has severe gradients throughout and was included among the list of hundred greatest cycling climbs in Britain.
The reward comes when you reach the ascent as you’ll be greeted by incredible valley views that make the taxing climb all worthwhile.
6. The Celtic Trail
The Celtic Trail offers cyclists a unique, scenic journey through Wales’ heartland and is perhaps the best way to discover the vast diversity of Welsh culture. Historic attractions, coastal gems and gorgeous landscapes await those up for the adventure with plenty of opportunities to stop and learn more about the region.
The route starts at the coast of the Irish Sea and lasts right through to the English border, taking in the picturesque valley, the fantastic beaches of Pembrokeshire and the rural countryside of Carmarthenshire along the way.
If you’re looking to stretch out a trip, the route can easily be broken down into several daily stages with highly recommended stops at tourist attractions such as National Botanic Gardens, Caerphilly Castle and St David’s, Britain’s smallest city.
7. Lôn Las Cymru Trail
Cyclists looking for a challenging route will be keen to tackle the Lôn Las Cymru Trail.
The 250+ mile journey is perhaps the ultimate cycling route in Wales and takes in everything from winding valleys, demanding rolling hills and quiet country towns. This scenic long-distance cycle is every bit as beautiful and suitably grand as you could imagine.
Starting off in Cardiff Bay through the suburbs northwards out of the capital city, cyclists will soon find themselves on the Wye Valley where steep climbs will test their endurance. There will be more climbing to do as the route hits Snowdonia, but it will be made to feel much easier by the stunning backdrop of the Welsh mountains.
The route officially ends, after a short ride through the familiar names of Bangor and Llanfairpwyllgwyngyll, in the friendly town of Holyhead where riders will be greeted with a relaxing coastal breeze and can take in the many sights of the famous ferry port.
