It covers the South West of Wales, including Swansea, LLanelli, Pembroke, St. David's and Cardigan.This pocket-sized col In this guide, we’ve reviewed our full collection of road biking routes in Wales to bring you the 20 best rides in the region. And if that sounds spectacular, it is. A family bike ride is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise and explore interesting places together. We'll climb mountain passes, speed along clifftop roads, and swoop past lakes on thrilling descents. Discover more about this route on my blog. Four reservoirs pooled in the hills, a smooth trail looping along the banks and buzzards overhead. Read on to find out what makes the National Cycle Network so special and discover the hidden gems along the way. Sustrans is committed to fundraising in a way which is legal, open, honest and respectful. 18 miles return Tarmac, traffic-free Pack a picnic for The Kymin then go and see The Shire Hall and you have a one-day mini-adventure straight from a children’s storybook. So you can find your perfect South Wales bike ride, we’ve reviewed our full collection of cycling routes in the region to deliver the top 20. These have all been cherry-picked by our National Cycle Network gurus, our fabulous volunteers. This 250-mile route traverses the country’s most mountainous countryside, from the Brecon Beacons to Snowdonia. Llangollen Canal. The county has a large area of rolling countryside which is unusual for Wales, however, it supplies land for their mainly agricultural economy. Cardiff to the Valleys (Medium) This isn’t the prettiest of routes, because of its focus on A-roads, but … Please see our latest advice on COVID-19 Tarmac or gravel, traffic-free Elevation gain: 745m. We also have hundreds of miles of wonderful traffic-free and low-traffic routes thanks to the National Cycle Network. "This route is a must for everyone who loves the outdoors. No traffic, no sweat: find inspiration for relaxed rides you can all tackle together. Mountain biking for families and beginners. Following a mixture of quiet lanes, canal towpaths, as well as old railway lines that once carried the raw minerals of the industrial revolution, the Network offers a great selection of traffic-free paths and long-distance routes that take in many of Wale… Note that this route … Active travel: statutory guidance for local authorities Guidance for local authorities on the processes and procedures to follow to meet their duties under the Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013. Sustrans is a registered charity in England and Wales (number 326550) and Scotland (SC039263) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England No 1797726 at 2 Cathedral Square, Bristol, BS1 5DD. With many beginner graded trails, Wales is the perfect place for family mountain bike rides. The Peregrine Path zig-zags across the Welsh-English border along the River Wye. Your final destination is the Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre where you can visit the South Wales Miners' Museum; enjoy world-class mountain biking trails, or grab a drink and soak up the panoramic views. Low-traffic cycle trails for a family day out. Cycle route: Monmouthshire and Brecon canal, South Wales Cycle route: Monmouthshire and Brecon canal, South Wales. The National Cycle Network includes many of these cycle routes – see the Sustrans website for more information. The last car you’ll see is the one you leave at the Discovery Centre in Llanelli. Discover more about this route on my blog.” - Curtis Fields. Please remember to follow Government guidelines on exercising locally and Covid restrictions wherever you are. What’s more, you’ll likely be surprised by quickly complete peace (bar bleating sheep) prevail within so few miles of South Wales’ cities and towns. Plentiful refreshments, Monmouth town and Skenfrith Castle, Wye Valley. Tarmac, traffic-free Refreshments in Penmaenpool and Barmouth, Barmouth bridge at sunset, and bikes on railings in Barmouth. The scenery is among the finest of any cycle route, starting at Cardiff Bay and crossing valley, hilltop, estuary and strait until it … The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly or downhill type. This rides takes in some of the finest sites of the Vale of Glamorgan. And with a handy café in the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Wales’s cycle routes don’t have to be hilly. 60 likes. Refreshments at each end, Views on the Millennium Coastal Path, Llanelli, West Wales. This long and meandering ride follows one of Britain’s prettiest towpath routes through the rural Vale of Usk, with remarkable mountainous scenery across the Brecon Beacons National Park. Wales is well known for it’s winding roads and spectacular scenery. On either side are the foothills of Cader Idris and the gorgeous Mawddach Estuary. "Coed Gwilym Park, where there is a Heritage Centre, and canoe hire on certain days. Wales Cycle Routes > Wales The Vale of Glamorgan is located at the southern tip of Wales and has a population of around 124,000. We've pulled together this brilliant list of 10 of the best routes to explore in Wales. "And the really good news is that the route is level and well surfaced, just the job for mum and dad.”- Peter Griffiths, “This route has stunning views, wildlife, open space, is mainly traffic-free, has a friendly atmosphere with walkers and canal boat owners, the aqueduct with the views of the viaduct and it’s also family-friendly.”- Lesley Cole, “My choice for my fave route is The Mawddach Trail as it is car-free, flat so anyone can enjoy it, and the scenery is some of the most stunning in Wales and the rest of the UK.”- Jonny Pickles, 9 classic children’s book destinations on the National Cycle Network, 9 of our favourite vegan-friendly restaurants on the National Cycle Network, 9 of the most romantic places on the National Cycle Network. Today I stopped to watch a heron wading stealthily up to its aquatic prey. Victorian, actually, but don’t tell the kids. "The route follows the River Wye from Monmouth to Symonds Yat, winding through a huge gorge and a National Nature Reserve, and boasts the most beautiful scenery.”- John Palmer. The Elan Valley Trail is an ideal introduction to off-road cycling that’s like the great outdoors only without the mud. You’ll pass a succession of coastal resorts – from brassy Rhyl to cultured Conwy and its castle. In my eyes, it’s the gem in the Sustrans crown.”- Myrddin Griffiths. 19 miles return Find out what we stand for and how our work around the UK is making a difference. Bike Adventure. Jack Thurston picks five from his new book Lost Lanes Wales: 36 Glorious Bike, each with a downloadable route and GPX file Normally that’s a holiday. The Mawddach Trail is a spectacular route from historic Dolgellau to the beach at Barmouth. Despite Swansea, Newport and Cardiff and their suburbs taking up so much of South Wales, the Sustrans map of South Wales is a blur of green: that colour denotes off-road routes, and every one of the valleys seems to have its own green trail. Wales Cycle Routes Wales part of the United Kingdom situated to the left of England has … Distance: 27km. 14 miles return Newport and Cardiff cycle route. 14 miles return When the views are this epic, a stroll becomes a mini-adventure, even the most reluctant ramblers. Explore fantastic walking and cycling routes across the UK. This glorious ride follows the North Wales Coast all the way to Bangor, with miles of traffic-free path, seaside promenades and quiet lanes. 10 to 16 miles return Many of the routes also connect with holiday areas, country parks and historic attractions, allowing you to combine your traffic-free bike ride with a Welsh sightseeing experience. Cycling In South Wales is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore more of this part of Wales. Sign up now to hear more about our latest news, views, events, campaigns, policy, impact and other activities. … “I chose this route because so many people have not heard of the 'Guardian' (artwork). Here are our three best bike ride picks from South Wales for you to try: 1 – Cardiff Bay Trail An ideal route for a leisurely Sunday saunter, this ride tackles an easy, circular trail around Cardiff Bay – passing by some of the city’s most vibrant, waterside attractions. New South Wales Find the right bike route for you through New South Wales, where we've got 11,821 cycle routes to explore. The majority of Wales’s 1,200 miles of National Cycle Network routes are here, most of them offering traffic-free cycling in thrilling By answering a few questions, we'll give you the chance to win £500. Discover the some of the best to explore. Guidance for local authorities planning and designing networks of walking and cycling routes. National Cycle Route 4 (or NCR 4) is a route of the National Cycle Network, running from London to Fishguard.Between London and Fishguard, the route runs through Reading, Bath, Bristol, Newport, Swansea, Llanelli and St David's.Within Wales, NCR 4 forms one of the branches of the Celtic Trail cycle route Refreshments in Afan Forest Park Visitor Centre, Mountain Bike trails at Afan Forest Park, Neath Port Talbot, West Wales. Courses. This offers a great opportunity to explore the Path in a way which is both good for your health and environmentally friendly. Join us for a beautiful yet challenging ride, taking in three mountain ranges and some stunning coastal riding. It begins at … Discover more routes on the National Cycle Network. 12 miles return A map of all the on and off road Cycling routes is available to download ( Cycle Route Map - North Torfaen and Cycle Route Map - South Torfaen ). ! Due to the ongoing coronavirus situation, events and businesses may not be operating as advertised. "Part of a generally lovely scenic ride, the viaduct itself is a great structure from above and below, with good views from the top and a lovely stream bubbling along beneath.”- Paul Twyman. Help us to continue to care for the National Cycle Network and support our work to improve walking and cycling for everyone. A personal favourite, the Horseshoe Pass (or ‘Bwlch … Tarmac, largely traffic-free “Without a doubt the most picturesque views you could wish for of the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and Carmarthen Fans. From touring the countryside to descending a mountainside, whatever type of cyclist you are, Cycling UK has some inspiration cycling routes for you. Several sections of the Wales Coast Path are designated sections of the National Cycle Network. Café in Slateworks. You won’t always need a bike – hire is plentiful – just a free hour or two. If you want action-packed walking and cycling adventures, combined with brilliant parks, gorgeous coastlines, amazing tourist attractions, fascinating heritage sites, interesting artworks, and great picnic, café and pub stops, then Wales’ Network has something for you. Wales North to South Challenge Ride. Tarmac, traffic-free A pocket size map of the National Cycle Network for South East Wales including routes in Torfaen can be purchased from Sustrans . Work in partnership with us to tackle the challenges of congestion, air pollution, physical inactivity, and social inequality, by making it easier for people to walk and cycle. to follow Government guidelines on exercising locally and Covid restrictions wherever you are. The stunning Port Talbot to Afan Forest Park route winds through the wildlife-rich Afan Forest, taking in some great artwork, including the Afan Valley Portrait Bench featuring three local icons. Visit Wales Facebook page followers recommended favourite places for a picnic. Our route-43 Cycle path contributes 36 miles to this grand total, a contribution which is hoped to expand further into the Brecon Beacons and beyond. Millennium Park, Llanelli, West Wales. "This now coincides with the Bay Trail. “This is my favourite route and it's very popular with families. Make your promise to Wales.Addo means to promise. The superb Millennium Coastal Path from Llanelli to Pembrey hugs the coast, providing views of sea and hills. Here it’s one morning. Read our fundraising promise. “There is an iconic bridge featuring artwork connecting the colours of the precious metals that were previously worked in the area. "Especially the upper section, above Tumble, which provides wonderful views across the Gwendraeth valley.”- Eifion and Jill Francis, “The wildlife along this route is stunning, even in winter - five types of fern within a few yards, constant birdsong, etc.”- Nicky Matcher. Wales Cycle Routes Wales is a fantastic place to cycle with some of the UK's most awe inspiring scenery to enjoy. Tarmac, largely traffic-free The Pontsticill Reservoir makes a great ending to the Merthyr section of the Taff Trail. Birdlife twitters in RSPB reserves. Please check directly with operators. Café in Castell Coch, Cycling in Bute Park and inside Castell Coch, South Wales. Idris’s Elbow. Read our advice relating to Covid-19. Your continued use of this website implies consent for usage of cookies. “The beauty of this route is that it is traffic-free and you can complete as much of it as you like with refreshment opportunities available. “One of my favourite sections of the National Cycle Network. A cycle path linking Newport and Cardiff provides a safe, continuous path for commuters. Welsh cycling isn’t all mountain biking. Share your Photos With This Group be sure to tell the other guests about this group!! To pledge. All is well with the world. Routes. Saddle up for a picture-book ride on the Lôn Eifion Cycleway through North Wales. There’s wildlife too: nature in reserves and flamingos in the Llanelli Wetland Centre. Horseshoe Pass from Wrexham, North Wales. Since the reeds have been cleared, this has become a real gem on the Network.”- Tony Moon. These routes are mostly flat, traffic free and on a hard surface and are perfect for individuals, groups and families. 24 miles return Easy access by train to Llanhilleth. "There is also a platform out over the water for a better view of the wildlife. To find the one which is right for you, click on any of the Tours to see a full breakdown of its details including elevation profiles and surface analyses, and browse real tips and photos shared by other members of the Komoot community. Take a look at some of our routes, or add your own favourites so that others can share your experiences. “The Cardiff Volunteer Group agreed with Cardiff Council to re-route Route 8 to take it across the wetlands by St. David’s Hotel. "Then the new route from Brynmawr up over the hill to Blaenafon is spectacular with views of the Sugar Loaf and the Clydach Gorge - ace to base!”- Dai Price. The route is partially off-road and in places uses minor public highways and rural unclassified roads. Walking in the mountains can be great fun for children. Start point: Llwyngwril. It’s perhaps best to think of it as a short but satisfyingly sharp weekend escape into a truly beautiful mountainscape. The last car you’ll see is the one you leave at the Discovery … There’s Caernarfon Castle and steam trains on the Welsh Highland Railway, then views of Snowdonia’s peaks and Caernarfon Bay, and pretty villages and crafts at the Inigo Jones Slateworks in Groeslon. Ace. Cycling is a beautiful thing. Shocking! Find an interactive cycling map of south east Wales with information of local places to stay and what to see. The Cardiff to Castle Coch cycle route offers a riverside ride along the Taff river with its own magic when Castell Coch appears like a medieval fairytale fortress. To vow. “There are so many great spots on the Network it’s really hard to choose just one. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of January and April. "It’s a lovely, short and easy ride with an excellent little museum and cafe at Six Bells - run by volunteers too! Tywi Valley circular tour, West Wales. The National Cycle Network has been hard at work in Wales, with a multitude of fabulous signed routes now running through the hills and valleys. Café in Elan Valley Visitor Centre, Garreg Ddu and Pen y Garreg dams and reservoirs in the Elan Valley, Mid Wales. Cycle Routes South Wales. Tarmac or gravel, largely traffic-free SUSTRANS The charity Sustrans were instrumental in the planning and pushing for the proposal and had eyed disused railway lines over a decade before the project began. The Cardiff Bay Trail can be great for spotting wildlife. “This route has stunning views, wildlife, open space, is mainly traffic-free, has a … "The path continues onto the flowing River Tawe on the other side, known for regular sightings of a kingfisher flashing through the trees!”- Nick Guy. Sign up to our newsletter for more route ideas to keep you active and busy. There are canoes all the way from Hay-on-Wye to Monmouth and castles at Skenfrith and Monmouth. "I love the Pontsarn Viaduct at Cefn-coed-y-cymmer along the Taff Trail. No matter how long you've been riding a motorbike, there's always something new to learn. Saddle up, easy riders. “One of the most scenic cycle routes - the steep hillside to the left and the view down to the roads far below is stunning. End point: Llwyngwril. The back roads of Wales’ national parks make for stunning cycling routes. Wales Coast Path. Evan at Cyced has put together numerous Newport cycling routes so you can get out and about in South Wales. Heritage coast. Tourist Information Centres. The Mawddach Trail goes along a beautiful estuary. Tourism and information. South West Wales cycle mapScale 1:110,000 - main mapThis area map shows the National Cycle Network and local routes in this area. The Tywi Valley is a truly lovely place to cycle, with endless … The estuary winks in the sun. Many of the Sustrans routes go on roads through the forests or near the national nature reserves which are managed by Natural Resources Wales. Our cookie policy.