Cycling in Wales

Wales does not necessarily spring to mind as being the ideal cycling destination because of all those hills!  But in fact, Wales has an enormous amount to offer the discerning cyclist.  It has world-class mountain biking facilities near Dolgellau at Coed-y-Brenin – a sort of Val d’Isere for mountain bikers (or perhaps more Chamonix!) –  lots of marked runs all over a very large forestry commission site.  There are many other routes to choose from, including a trip down Snowden for the really energetic, though you can only do this at certain times of day.

However, it is isn’t all high adrenalin stuff, as there is plenty of outstanding and surprisingly flat touring cycling to be had along the Wales Coastal path and along old railway beds.  For those that want to test themselves, there are also lots of really steep climbs with spectacular views and rewarding circuits.

Wales has put a good deal of effort into creating routes and facilities for cyclists – my overall favourite being the “Lon Las Cymru”, a wonderful ride stretching from Holyhead on Angelsey in the North West to the Severn Bridge in the South East, and linked to the Kennet and Avon canal route all the way to London, following off-road tracks and small lanes the whole way. So if you want the best and most varied cycling anywhere in the UK, come to Wales!

Planning a cycling holiday in Wales? Check out our collection of self catered cottages in Wales on the Premier Cottages Website.

Local information kindly provided by:

Will Garton-Jones, Llanfendigaid Estate