The 9 best cycle routes in Wales

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting out, you’ll never be stuck for somewhere new to explore here in the UK.

Although Wales is a small country, it has a huge amount to offer for cyclists. Known for its rolling hills, gorgeous coastlines, and traditional-meets-modern aesthetic, it’s one of the best places in the world for a bike ride.

So, with its scenic countryside, modern seafronts and heritage considered, here are the best cycle routes in Wales.

Table of contents

• Cardiff Bay Trail
• Clydach Gorge to Abergavenny
• Elan Valley Trail
• Swansea Valley
• Lôn Las Cymru
• The Mawddach Trail
• Peregrine Path
• Swiss Valley
• Bwlch y Groes

1. Cardiff Bay Trail

• Map: view
• Distance: 7.3km
• Best suited to: Road cyclists

We kick things off in Wales’ beautiful capital, and what better way to explore this country than by visiting Cardiff and taking a ride along the picturesque coast?

Perfect for cyclists of all abilities, from young families to expert riders, this traffic-free route circles Cardiff Bay and loops over to the nearby seaside town of Penarth, via Pont y Werin – otherwise known as ‘The People’s Bridge’.

Built in 2010 as part of a National Lottery-funded project, Pont y Werin spans the River Ely and is designed especially for cyclists and pedestrians.

As you ride over it, the glorious coastal views across the bay and Penarth will stop you in your tracks –  so make sure you pack a camera.

Cardiff Bay itself has plenty to offer, too. You'll never be short of activities with tons of bars, restaurants, waterfront cafés, the Wales Millennium Centre, and even a Dr Who Experience.

2. Clydach Gorge to Abergavenny

• Map: view
• Distance: 12.7km
• Best suited to: Mountain bikers.

Around 40 miles north of Cardiff Bay lies Clydach Gorge, a steep valley where the River Clydach flows peacefully to the Usk.

Though one of the first locations in the region to become industrialised, the Gorge has managed to maintain its breathtaking natural beauty.

On this route, you’ll travel high above the Gorge from Llanfoist down to Brynmawr, just to the southwest of Abergavenny.

This trail cuts through the heart of the famous Brecon Beacons National Park, and you’ll also get some glorious views of Skirrid Mountain and the Sugar Loaf.

Eagle-eyed riders with a penchant for Welsh history can also discover remains from the industrial age here. Mining and quarrying ruins and historic railway structures lie in tranquility among the natural wildlife.

3. Elan Valley Trail

• Map: view
• Distance: 28.9km
• Best suited to: Road cyclists.

In mid-Wales, you’ll find the remnants of the old Birmingham Corporation Railway – a line which our next pick follows for much of its route.

The Elan Valley Trail starts in the close-knit community of Cwmdeuddwr, to the west of Rhayader. It can be enjoyed in either direction, but most riders head west from the town towards the valley.

This route is suitable for cyclists of all ability levels and takes riders over the Rhayader Tunnel, a dark and intriguing structure home to many bat species.

There are several magnificent dams and reservoirs along the Elan Valley Trail. From the northern end of the Garreg Ddu, you’ll also be treated to stunning views of the other nearby valleys and the four reservoirs. Interestingly, these reservoirs feed the city of Birmingham’s water supply.

The Elan Valley Trail is mostly tarmacked, making it suitable for all riders. But be prepared, because the trail’s northern end isn’t as beginner-friendly.

4. Swansea Valley

• Map: view
• Distance: 11.2km
• Best suited to: Road cyclists.

Another jewel in South Wales's crown is Swansea, a city famous for its mix of traditional architecture and modern surroundings.

The Swansea Valley cycle route encapsulates the city’s industrial past while showcasing its regenerated present.

The route begins on Swansea’s beautiful modern waterfront, near the Sail Bridge, and follows the River Tawe past early 20th-century brick warehouses and the Liberty Stadium – home of Swansea City FC and the Ospreys rugby team.

After crossing the river, you’ll ride up towards Clydach, past Glais, over the Afon Tawe Bridge artwork, and further on to the small town of Pontardawe.

The trail finishes on the east side of Swansea Valley, where spectacular views across the Brecon Beacons round things off.

5. Lôn Las Cymru

• Map: view
• Distance: Full trail 402km (choose your segment!)
• Best suited to: Mountain bikers.

Fancy a challenge?

Not for the faint-hearted, Lôn Las Cymru is a real test, so much so that we recommend you give yourself a minimum of five days to complete it.

That is, of course, if you want to tackle the entire route, which covers the breadth of the entire country of Wales – from Cardiff in the south right up to Holyhead in the north.

Tackling the nation’s most mountainous countryside, from the Brecon Beacons to Snowdonia, Lôn Las Cymru is undoubtedly one of Wales's most challenging cycle routes. So, you need to get in as much practice as possible before attempting it.

Of course, you don’t have to cycle the entire route; many riders select just a single segment.

Crossing valley, hilltop, estuary and even strait, the scenery on the Lôn Las Cymru is second to none. So, if you’re up for the challenge – what are you waiting for?

6. The Mawddach Trail

• Map: view
• Distance: 14.4km
• Best suited to: Mountain bikers.

If Lôn Las Cymru piqued your interest, but you don’t feel ready to take on the entire route, we’ve got you covered.

The Mawddach Trail forms a small part of the Lôn Las and is bound to give you a flavour of the route.

This beautiful ride follows the Mawddach Estuary, underneath the foothills of Cadair Idris, passing old railway lines and over two unique wooden bridges. It runs through the historic, grey-stone town of Dolgellau and the popular seaside and caravanning resort of Barmouth.

With views in the north of hills rising to as high as 2,000ft, this is one of Wales’ most naturally beautiful cycle routes.

Mawddach Estuary is also known for its amazing birdlife. Along this route, you’ll find the RSPB nature reserve at Arthog Bog– a gorgeous wetland reserve packed to the rafters with interesting wildlife and greenery.

7. Peregrine Path

• Map: view
• Distance: 12.8km
• Best suited to: All forms of cycling.

This is another cycle route that’s popular with families.

Starting in the historic market town of Monmouth (the birthplace of Henry V), this route closely straddles the England-Wales border.

Winding alongside the famous River Wye and passing through The Kymin – a popular picnic spot with dashing views across Wales – the Peregrine Path is a fabulous ride for all the family.

King Arthur’s Cave is another point of interest along this route. It’s said to have been inhabited by humans during Palaeolithic times, and woolly mammoth remains have also previously been found nearby.

8. Swiss Valley

• Map: view
• Distance: 17 km
• Best suited to: Mountain bikers.

It should be clear by now that the Welsh countryside is full of old, disused railway lines. In fact, most of the nation’s cycle routes are built around them.

The Swiss Valley route is no exception.

Starting at the Sandy Water Park in Llanelli, this route gently climbs into the rolling Carmarthenshire hills, around the tranquil Lliedi reservoirs, and into Cross Hands.

After meandering through rows of traditional-looking Welsh terraced houses, you’ll notice that the hills suddenly fall into place in front of you. Here, you’ll see the very best of South Wales.

The scenery doesn’t just stop at the trail's end, either. Once you’ve finished this route, you can take advantage of half-price entry to the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

9. Bwlch Y Groes

• Map: view
• Distance: 54.6km
• Best suited to: Road cyclists.

We end our cycling tour of Wales with a challenge that should be on every rider’s bucket list – Bwlch y Groes.

This route begins in the northern town of Bala. It takes you along the north-eastern edge of Lynn Tegid, or Bala Lake, before winding through the quiet country roads and upwards towards the distant hills.

For those who like their trivia, Bwlch y Groes is Wales's second-highest public road mountain pass, with a summit altitude of just under 1,800ft. The ride itself is known to be challenging, but it’s not impossible for a beginner to conquer it.

As one of Wales’ most secluded cycle routes, you won’t see many houses or much human life on this trail. However, the small village of Llanwdynn has two gorgeous cafés, so be sure to stop here to refuel the rest of your ride.

Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan

Whatever bike you have, you may want to consider getting insurance before heading out for a ride.

Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan is designed to cover a range of bikes – from mountain to road and BMX to electrics. 

The range of insurance policies available through Cycleplan are designed to protect you and your bike. Personal Accident cover is included alongside Theft and Accidental Damage protection.

Learn more about specialist cycling insurance and get an instant online quote today.