The best cycling routes around North Pembroke

North Pembrokeshire offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You'll find challenging climbs through the Preseli Hills, tranquil rides along quiet country lanes in the Gwaun Valley, and scenic coastal routes offering dramatic views of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. There are also sections of disused railway lines converted into cycle paths for easier rides.

Yes, North Pembrokeshire has options suitable for families and beginners. The network of quiet country roads and disused railway lines, such as sections of the Celtic Trail, provide gentler, traffic-free paths. These routes often connect villages and coastal viewpoints, offering a relaxed cycling experience.

For more advanced touring cyclists, the Preseli Hills offer challenging routes with significant elevation gain and panoramic views. Coastal routes, particularly those traversing the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, can also feature steep gradients and demanding terrain, such as sections of the Celtic Trail starting from Fishguard.

Cycling in North Pembrokeshire offers numerous scenic highlights. The Preseli Hills provide sweeping vistas that can extend to the Wicklow Mountains on a clear day. Coastal routes around Strumble Head offer dramatic views of the Irish Sea and opportunities to spot marine wildlife. The Gwaun Valley is known for its serene, picturesque landscapes, especially in summer.

Many towns like Fishguard and Newport serve as excellent bases for touring cyclists and are accessible by public transport. From these towns, you can connect to numerous routes exploring the Gwaun Valley, Preseli Hills, and coastal areas. It's advisable to check local bus and train services for specific route access points.

Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes. For example, the 'Mynydd Carningli via Fishguard and Newport loop' is a popular moderate road cycling route that offers both coastal and hill views. The 'Mynydd Preseli loop' from Newport is another option for exploring the hills and ancient sites.

North Pembrokeshire is rich in history. Cyclists can incorporate visits to sites like the ruins of Nevern Castle, St Brynach's Church, and the Pilgrims' Cross in the Nevern Valley. The enormous megalithic structure of Pentre Ifan, which predates Egypt's pyramids, is also accessible. The Preseli Hills themselves are dotted with Neolithic burial chambers, stone circles, and Iron Age forts.

The summer months are particularly pleasant for touring cycling in North Pembrokeshire, with wildflowers and honeysuckle lining the roads in areas like the Gwaun Valley. However, the region's diverse landscapes can be enjoyed throughout the warmer seasons, offering varied experiences from coastal breezes to inland tranquility.

Yes, North Pembrokeshire is part of significant long-distance routes. The Celtic Trail (West) is a challenging route that starts in Fishguard and heads inland, covering over 150 miles. Another popular option is Lon Teifi, which winds through beautiful Welsh valleys and along the coastline, including an incline near Newport before descending into Fishguard's Gwaun Valley.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the sense of wild beauty in the Preseli Hills, and the tranquility of the Gwaun Valley. The mix of challenging and easy routes also makes it appealing to a wide range of cyclists.

While the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail is primarily for walkers, some sections are accessible by bike. However, the majority of the path has restrictions for cycling. It's important to check local signage and regulations for specific sections, as the northern stretch from St Dogmael's to St David's Head is particularly wild and remote.