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United Kingdom
Wales
Powys

Banwy

The best MTB trails around Banwy

5.0

(4)

34

riders

8

rides

Mountain biking around Banwy offers diverse terrain within the picturesque landscapes of northwest Montgomeryshire, Powys, Wales. The region is characterized by its river valleys, such as the River Banwy, and proximity to significant natural attractions like Lake Vyrnwy and Dyfnant Forest. Riders can expect varied routes, often featuring unpaved segments and notable elevation changes, providing an adventurous experience. The area's geography includes rolling hills and forested areas, making it suitable for different mountain biking styles.

Best mountain bike trails in…

Last updated: May 14, 2026

#1.

Mynydd y Cemmaes Dovey Valley loop

32.6km

03:03

800m

810m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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Moderate

5.0

(3)

11

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Alex Foxfield
October 22, 2025, Dyfnant Forest

The hills of the great Dyfnant Forest were once rode by Welsh hero Owain Glyndŵr, who led the rebellion against English rule in Wales during the 15th century. Today, the woodland is still enjoyed by those on horseback, as well as hikers on the Glyndŵr’s Way long-distance trail. The coniferous woodland here is part of the National Forest for Wales project.

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Alex Foxfield
October 22, 2025, Llanwddyn

Llanwddyn is a small village beneath the Llanwddyn Dam on Lake Vyrnwy. The original village was flooded when the reservoir was created in the 1880s. There are a couple of accommodation options in the surroundings: the beautifully situated Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa to the north-east and the Lake Vyrnwy campsite to the east.

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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.

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embee999
September 26, 2024, Lake Vyrnwy Dam

There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.

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The dam across the Vyrnwy Valley, Montgomeryshire, was the first large masonry dam, and was completed in 1888. Water from the reservoir supplies Liverpool, travelling there along a 70 mile aqueduct. They have a bike hire and cafe in the car part. You can hire a bike to ride around the lake the road surface is great with some spectacular views of the lake and dam. The dam at Lake Vyrnwy is often associated with practice bombing runs for Operation Chastise in The Second World War. Better known as the “Dambusters” raid, Lancasters of 617 Squadron breached the German Möhne and Eder dams and damaged the Sorpe dam in May 1943. However, the association with Lake Vyrnwy seems to be something of a local myth as the dam was never actually used for this purpose. So where did this story originate? It seems that at least one scene in the famous 1955 film, “The Dambusters” was shot at Lake Vyrnwy leading to the mistaken belief that the wartime RAF Lancaster bomber crews practiced there.

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Lake Vyrnwy (Welsh: Llyn Efyrnwy, pronounced [ɛˈvərnʊɨ] or Llyn Llanwddyn) is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy (Welsh: Afon Efyrnwy) valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.

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Artisans Craft and Coffee shop provides food and drink including hot toasted baguettes, homemade cakes and scones and Kelly's Ice Cream. There is also a bike hire service here if you want to take on the 12 miles (20 km) of scenic road around the lake.

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This scenic well-surfaced track is a pleasant alternative to the road. It cuts through Dynant Forest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are there in the Banwy area?

The Banwy region offers a selection of 11 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes traverse picturesque landscapes, including river valleys and dense forests like Dyfnant Forest.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Banwy?

Yes, there is at least one easy mountain bike trail in the Banwy area. While many routes feature unpaved segments and elevation changes, options exist for those seeking a less challenging ride. For a moderate option that is often suitable for families, consider the Giants of Vyrnwy – Lake Vyrnwy Dam loop from Lake Vyrnwy, which leads through the scenic Lake Vyrnwy area.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in the Banwy Valley?

Mountain biking in the Banwy Valley and surrounding areas features diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of unpaved segments, forest paths, and rolling hills. Routes often include significant elevation changes, providing an adventurous experience through river valleys and forested areas like Dyfnant Forest.

Are there any advanced or difficult mountain bike trails in Banwy for experienced riders?

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Banwy offers difficult trails with substantial ascents and descents. The Idris Stores loop from Aberangell is a challenging 24.9-mile path with considerable elevation changes and expansive views, requiring very good fitness.

What are some notable natural features or attractions I might see along the mountain bike trails?

Many mountain bike trails in Banwy offer stunning natural scenery. You'll often ride through the scenic River Banwy Valley and dense woodlands like Dyfnant Forest. A prominent natural feature is Lake Vyrnwy, which several routes explore. You might also encounter dramatic mountain scenery as some routes extend towards Eryri / Snowdonia National Park. For specific viewpoints and mountain passes, consider exploring highlights such as Bwlch y Groes or the Hirnant Pass Climb from Rhiwargor.

Are there circular mountain bike routes available in Banwy?

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Banwy are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Mynydd y Cemmaes Dovey Valley loop and the Coed Fachwen loop from Penyffordd Car Park, both designed to bring you back to your starting location.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Banwy?

The Banwy region offers mountain biking opportunities throughout much of the year. However, spring and autumn often provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be excellent, but trails might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved forest paths.

Are there mountain bike trails in Dyfnant Forest, and what are they like?

Yes, Dyfnant Forest is a key area for mountain biking in Banwy. Trails here often feature forest paths, some unpaved, with varying elevation changes. The Dyfnant Forest loop from Llangadfan is a moderate 30.1-kilometer route that showcases the forest's characteristics, offering a good mix of terrain and scenery.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in Banwy?

The mountain biking experience in Banwy is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 8 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the picturesque landscapes of the river valleys and forests, and the adventurous nature of the routes, which often include significant elevation gains.

Are there any specific permits or rules for mountain biking in the Banwy area, especially in places like Dyfnant Forest?

While general access to public rights of way is permitted, specific rules or permits might apply to certain managed forest areas or private lands. For areas like Dyfnant Forest, it's always advisable to check with the local forestry commission or land management authorities for any specific regulations regarding trail usage, especially for designated mountain bike trails or 'Rainbow Trails' if they are present, to ensure compliance and responsible riding.

Are there mountain bike trails in Banwy that are dog-friendly?

Many public rights of way in the Banwy region are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock. When riding through forests or nature reserves, always check for specific signage regarding dogs. It's best to keep dogs on a lead to protect wildlife and ensure their safety on shared trails.

Are there mountain bike trails with convenient parking in the Banwy area?

Many mountain bike routes in Banwy, especially those starting from villages or popular natural attractions like Lake Vyrnwy, typically have designated parking areas nearby. For example, the Coed Fachwen loop explicitly mentions starting from Penyffordd Car Park, indicating convenient access for riders arriving by car.

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