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Routes
Cycling routes
United Kingdom
Wales
North Wales
Gwynedd

Llanycil

The best cycling routes around Llanycil

4.9

(38)

1,067

riders

68

rides

Touring cycling routes around Llanycil are set within the diverse landscapes of Gwynedd, Wales, bordering Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). The region is characterized by the expansive Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), surrounding mountain ranges including Arenig Fawr and Aran Benllyn, and a network of valleys and forests. This varied terrain offers a mix of lakeside paths, quiet country roads, and challenging mountain ascents.

Best touring cycling routes around Llanycil

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Llyn Trawsfynydd & Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake loop from Bala โ€” Eryri / Snowdonia National Park, a 42.6 miles (68.5 km) trail that takes 4 hours 40 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers extensive views of two major lakes and the surrounding mountain scenery.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bala Town Centre โ€“ Bala Town Centre loop from Llangywer, an easy 6.4 miles (10.3 km) path. This route provides a gentle ride through the local area, suitable for a relaxed outing.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Bala Lake โ€“ Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) loop from Parc, a 10.7 miles (17.2 km) trail leading through the Llyn Tegid lakeside area, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Llanycil is defined by the expansive Llyn Tegid, impressive mountain backdrops, and tranquil valleys. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy lakeside rides to challenging mountain climbs.
  • The routes in Llanycil are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Llanycil's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 11, 2026

5.0

(1)

24

riders

#1.

Llyn Trawsfynydd & Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake loop from Bala โ€” Eryri / Snowdonia National Park

68.5km

04:40

1,060m

1,060m

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure through Eryri / Snowdonia National Park with the Llyn Trawsfynydd & Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake loop. This difficult route spans 42.6 miles (68.5 km) and features a substantial elevation gain of 3476 feet (1059 metres), offering diverse terrain from quiet roads to demanding hill climbs. You will cycle past the tranquil Llyn Trawsfynydd and the expansive Llyn Tegid, Wales's largest natural lake, all while enjoying views of the Arans, Arenigs, and Berwyns mountain ranges. Expect to complete this scenic journey in about 4 hours and 40 minutes, making it a rewarding test of endurance.

To tackle this loop, you will need very good fitness and a suitable touring bicycle, as parts of the trail around Llyn Trawsfynydd may involve gravel paths and country roads with potentially loose surfaces. A hybrid or mountain bike with knobbly tires would be most suitable for these sections. Be prepared for significant elevation changes and demanding ascents characteristic of the mountainous Snowdonia region. While specific access details are not provided, planning for varied terrain and significant climbs will ensure a smoother experience.

This loop stands out for its comprehensive showcase of Snowdonia's natural beauty, allowing you to tour two significant lakes within the national park. It uniquely combines moments of peaceful lakeside cycling with arduous climbs through dramatic mountainous terrain. The diverse landscapes, ranging from tranquil waters to rugged peaks, ensure a memorable and immersive touring cycling experience that highlights the heart of Snowdonia National Park.

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Hard

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Popular around Llanycil

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Tips from the Community

David Howells
April 12, 2026, View of the Valley from Bwlch y Groes

The climb up to Bwlch-y-Groes from Llanymawddwy is a tough one. It is about 3.4 km long and has about 387 m of vertical ascent to get to the gap at 546 m above sea level. You will have an average gradient of 11.3% to grind away at, but you will be rewarded with fantastic views north and south.

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Prysor Cafe now open most days, nice seating outside overlooking llyn.

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Lake Vyrnwys straining tower! Lovely place and gives it that fairy tale vibe. One of my special places is Vyrnwy.

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perfect after a ride from Machynlleth "Canolfan Prysor Centre" with all the usual cafe favourites, good food and friendly staff.

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Graham Hind
July 14, 2025, Bala Lake

Great place for a stop--ice cream and coffee!

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Good loop. I rode up out of Llanuwchllyn. But this ride would work very well starting in Bala. The section up around Arenig is great. A few gates to open/close, one farm to go through....but this is a good alternative to the sadly hobbled Bala Loop (Vyrnwy).

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Plenty of drink and eateries

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Don't go too far if it's rained or you end up getting your feet wet. Beautiful place not far from car park and cafe can be quite stoney

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Llanycil?

Llanycil offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with nearly 70 different options available on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy lakeside rides to challenging mountain ascents.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Llanycil?

Yes, Llanycil has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For a gentle ride, consider the Bala Town Centre โ€“ Bala Town Centre loop from Llangywer, which is just over 10 km. Another accessible option is the Bala Lake โ€“ Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) loop from Parc, offering scenic views along the lake.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Llanycil?

The terrain around Llanycil is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from flat, easy paths along the shores of Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala) to quiet country roads winding through valleys and challenging climbs into the surrounding mountains like Arenig Fawr and Aran Benllyn. The region is part of the wider Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), ensuring varied and scenic landscapes.

Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Llanycil offers routes with significant elevation gains. The Llyn Trawsfynydd & Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake loop from Bala โ€” Eryri / Snowdonia National Park is a difficult 68.5 km route with over 1000 meters of climbing. Another demanding option is the Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) โ€“ Bwlch y Groes loop from Bala, which includes the ascent to Bwlch y Groes, known as the highest road pass in Wales.

What natural attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes in Llanycil?

Many routes offer stunning views of natural attractions. You can cycle alongside Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala), Wales' largest natural lake, or encounter other beautiful lakes like Llyn Trawsfynydd. The routes also provide panoramic vistas of impressive peaks such as Aran Benllyn and Arenig Fawr Summit.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Llanycil area?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Llanycil are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Bala Town Centre โ€“ Bala Town Centre loop from Llangywer and the Bala Lake โ€“ Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) loop from Parc, both offering convenient circular journeys.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Llanycil?

The touring cycling routes in Llanycil are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeside paths to challenging mountain passes, and the opportunity to explore the stunning Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) scenery.

Are there any routes that pass by historical or cultural sites?

While the focus is on natural beauty, some routes may pass near points of interest. For example, the Bala Lake Railway offers scenic train rides alongside Llyn Tegid, and you might encounter historical sites like Mary Jones World heritage centre in Llanycil itself. The wider Snowdonia area also has numerous historical sites.

Can I combine cycling with other activities in Llanycil?

Absolutely! Llanycil is an excellent base for combining touring cycling with other outdoor activities. Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala) is a hub for watersports like kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. The mountainous terrain also provides ample opportunities for hiking and walking, with peaks like Aran Benllyn offering rewarding excursions.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Llanycil?

The best time for touring cycling in Llanycil is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Are there any routes that offer views of waterfalls?

While the region is known for its lakes and mountains, Snowdonia National Park, which Llanycil borders, is home to numerous cascading waterfalls. While specific routes listed here may not directly feature waterfalls, exploring the wider park area will undoubtedly lead you to these beautiful natural features.

Are there any routes that are particularly good for wildlife spotting?

Cycling through the valleys, forests, and along the shores of Llyn Tegid (Lake Bala) offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including various waterfowl around the lake, and other local fauna in the quieter, forested sections of the routes.

Is there parking available near the touring cycling routes in Llanycil?

Yes, parking is generally available in and around Bala, which serves as a common starting point for many routes in the Llanycil area. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found in the route descriptions on komoot.

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