5.0
(3)
67
riders
9
rides
Gravel biking around Ysgubor-Y-Coed offers routes through the rugged terrain of the Cambrian Mountains in Mid Wales. The landscape is characterized by significant elevation changes, with many routes featuring challenging climbs and descents. Riders can expect to navigate through remote valleys, past reservoirs like Nant y Moch, and across open moorland. The area provides a demanding environment for gravel cyclists seeking extensive off-road experiences.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
riders
51.4km
04:59
960m
960m
Embark on the Nant y Moch loop from Machynlleth, a difficult gravel biking adventure spanning 31.9 miles (51.4 km) with a significant 3164 feet (964 metres) of elevation gain. This…
5.0
(1)
9
riders
48.8km
04:45
930m
930m
Embark on the Mach 1, 2, and 3 Loop, a difficult gravel biking adventure spanning 30.4 miles (48.8 km) with a significant 3067 feet (935 metres) of elevation gain. This…

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5.0
(1)
41
riders
43.7km
03:41
960m
960m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
28.1km
02:14
660m
660m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Nant y Moch Reservoir is a significant water reservoir located in the Cambrian Mountains of Wales, specifically in the county of Ceredigion. It was constructed in the late 20th century and is primarily used for water supply. The reservoir is situated near the village of Llanidloes and is part of the larger infrastructure managed by Welsh Water. The area surrounding Nant y Moch Reservoir is known for its natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, moorland, and diverse wildlife. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as walking, birdwatching, and fishing. The reservoir itself is also used for recreational purposes, and there are walking trails around its perimeter that offer stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. In terms of ecology, the reservoir and its surroundings support various plant and animal species, making it an important area for conservation as well as recreation. The combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Nant y Moch a valued spot in the Welsh countryside.
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Stayed at The Wynnstay, perfect place to prepare for starting the Traws Eryri the following day...
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As soon as you leave the town, the views of the Dyfi valley and surrounding hills are superb.
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Machynlleth is a very popular, pretty and historic market town at the head of the beautiful Dyfi estuary. It is a mecca for its never ending supply of bike trails. It is also an ideal base for exploring the neighbouring countryside. The Dyfi Valley, Snowdonia National Park, Tal-y-Llyn Railway, Clywedog Reservoir, the Vale of Rheidol Railway and Devil's Bridge gorge are all within easy reach of Machynlleth.
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A prominent landmark in the centre of Machynlleth, the Clock Tower was built in 1874 to mark the coming of age of the eldest son of the Fifth Marquess of Londonderry. It marks the southern termination of the Snowdonia Way long-distance trail. For supplies, there are plenty of places to stock up in the town.
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have done the mach 2 and 3 loved the mach2 would not do the mach3 again just a lot of fire roads
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Great view, hills coming up!!
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Gravel biking in Ysgubor-Y-Coed is predominantly challenging, with 9 out of 10 routes rated as difficult. The terrain features significant elevation changes, remote valleys, and open moorland, making it ideal for experienced riders seeking a demanding off-road experience.
Yes, the region offers several long routes. For instance, the Nant y Moch loop from Machynlleth — Cambrian Mountains is 31.9 miles (51.4 km) long, and the Mach 1, 2, and 3 Loop covers 30.3 miles (48.8 km).
While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed, routes often start from towns like Machynlleth or Tal-y-bont. You can typically find public parking facilities in these larger settlements, which serve as good starting points for your rides.
Given that most routes in Ysgubor-Y-Coed are rated as difficult due to significant elevation changes and rugged terrain, options suitable for families or beginners are very limited. The area is primarily geared towards experienced gravel cyclists.
While many trails in the Welsh countryside are dog-friendly, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage and be mindful of the remote nature of many routes, which may lack amenities for pets.
The gravel biking in Ysgubor-Y-Coed is characterized by its demanding nature. Riders will encounter significant elevation changes, navigating through remote valleys, past reservoirs like Nant y Moch, and across open moorland. This rugged terrain and the prevalence of difficult routes (9 out of 10) provide a challenging environment for advanced gravel cyclists.
The best time for gravel biking in Ysgubor-Y-Coed is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, be prepared for changeable mountain weather at any time of year.
Many of the routes in Ysgubor-Y-Coed traverse remote areas of the Cambrian Mountains. While you might find amenities in larger starting towns like Machynlleth, services along the trails themselves are sparse. It's advisable to carry sufficient food and water.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the Ysgubor-Y-Coed area are designed as loops. For example, the Bwlch Nant Glas Gravel Climb – Moel y Llyn Gravel Climb loop from Tal-y-bont offers a challenging circular ride.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore stunning waterfalls like Blaen Hafren Falls or Upper Dolgoch Waterfall. There are also natural monuments such as Tarren Hendre Summit and picturesque lakes like Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake).
There are 10 gravel bike trails available around Ysgubor-Y-Coed, offering a variety of challenging routes through the Cambrian Mountains.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the challenging terrain, the remote beauty of the Cambrian Mountains, and the extensive off-road experiences available.


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