The best gravel rides around Halfway Forest
5.0
(2)
66
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking around Halfway Forest offers diverse terrain, transitioning from ancient woodlands to conifer plantations. The region, situated between the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Cambrian Mountains, features varied gradients across forest roads and old tracks. These routes provide a mix of mostly paved surfaces and gravel, with some singletrack sections. The landscape includes tranquil gorges and views of the surrounding Mid Wales mountains.
Best gravel bike trails around Halfway Forest
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Chrychan Forest – Singletrack Gravel Path loop from Esgair Fwyog Picnic Site, a 12.9 miles (20.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 59 minutes to complete. This difficult route features varied gradients and singletrack sections.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop from Llandovery, a difficult 49.9 miles (80.2 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gains and passes by Llyn Brianne.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Llandovery Castle Ruins – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Llandovery, a 56.5 miles (90.9 km) trail leading through challenging gravel terrain, often completed in about 6 hours 14 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Halfway Forest is defined by ancient woodlands, conifer plantations, and varied gradients across forest roads and old tracks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from challenging long-distance routes to shorter loops.
- The routes in Halfway Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a small number of reviews. More than 60 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Halfway Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
80.2km
07:05
1,450m
1,450m
Embark on a difficult gravel biking adventure with the Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop from Llandovery. This challenging route spans 49.9 miles (80.2 km) and features a substantial 4747 feet (1447 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 7 hours and 5 minutes to complete. You will traverse the wild and remote landscapes of West Wales, enjoying fantastic scenery that includes pine-clad forests, open moorland, and the stunning Llyn Brianne reservoir. The terrain varies from mostly paved surfaces to wide gravel roads and rougher unpaved sections, offering amazing views as the road twists and turns around the water. Prepare for the infamous Devil's Staircase, a climb known for its savage steepness, pitching up to 25% and even an almost unrideable 30% in places. You might need to push your bike on this section, which also features rough patches and cattle grids.
This hard gravel ride demands very good fitness and advanced riding skills, especially for the Devil's Staircase. The route is extremely remote, so be prepared for minimal traffic and limited mobile signal throughout your journey. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, planning for a full day's ride is essential given its duration and difficulty. Ensure you carry all necessary supplies, as services will be scarce in this wilderness area. The best time to tackle this loop would likely be during drier months to mitigate the challenges of the rougher sections and steep climbs.
The Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop is notable for its legendary climb and the spectacular Llyn Brianne Dam and Reservoir, which is Britain's highest dam. The route showcases the jaw-dropping roads through the Cambrian Mountains and Brecon Beacons, including the Abergwesyn Valley, considered one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Wales. The integration of open military roads adds a unique character to this wilderness adventure, setting it apart as a truly challenging and rewarding experience in West Wales.
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5.0
(1)
2
riders
77.3km
05:23
1,390m
1,390m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
56
riders
90.9km
06:14
1,660m
1,660m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cwm R MTB trail is completely blocked at top end due to hundreds of wind fallen trees this winter. Please consider before as you can not navigate loop.
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It was a truly stunning spot to take in the scenery from this elevated panoramic viewpoint. Highly recommended.
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A short climb up from the road brings you to the Dam and carpark, there is no access over the Dam itself. But you do get a good view over the spillway and valley below.
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Devil’s Staircase is a climb for mountain bike type gears and an advantage for those that can ride out of the saddle .My attempts have failed miserably,best of luck.
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THE TALE OF THE WELSH “ROBIN HOOD” Known as Twm Siôn Cati Twm Siôn Cati is a historically known figure in Welsh folklore. A tale recounted by Meyrick recalls how Twm was asked by a poor man to steal a pitcher for him. They went together to a merchant where Twm started belittling the man's wares. Having told his friend secretly to take the pitcher of his choice, Twm distracted the merchant by telling him there was a hole in one of the pitchers, which the man denied. Twm desired him to put his hand in the pitcher to test it and the man still denied there was a hole. Twm then asked him how, if there was no hole, could he have put his hand inside? By this time his friend had disappeared with his pitcher, undetected. A tale from Prichard's book involves an occasion when Twm is staying in an inn overnight and realises other people are planning to rob him the following day after he sets off. He has a large sum of money with him. The following morning he behaves as though his money is in the pack-saddle of his horse. When the highwayman catches up, Twm drops the saddle in the middle of a pool. The highwayman wades into the pool to fetch it, Twm takes the opportunity to make off with the highwayman's horse. A complication arises because the horse responds to the voice of the highwayman crying "Stop!" Luckily Twm, in terror, happens to shout a word which makes the horse gallop on again, and he is conveyed to safety. Another tale recounts how Twm waylaid a rich squire, who was accompanied by his daughter, Twm was so smitten with her that he returned her jewellery to her and attempted to woo her, against her father's opposition and, initially, her own. One full moon shortly after the robbery, he crept to her window, roused her from sleep, caught her hand at the window and kissed it, refusing to let her go until she promised to marry him. She wouldn't promise so Twm drew his dagger, drew blood on her wrist and threatened to sever her hand unless she assented to marriage forthwith. She agreed to marry him and she kept her hand. Their marriage followed soon after, despite her father's views and the directness of Twm's courtship methods. The girl was supposedly the widow of the sheriff of Carmarthen. Through this marriage Twm is supposed to have gained respectability, eventually becoming a justice of the peace, sitting in judgement on others, a position he held until his death aged 79.
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An incredible stretch of road. Very isolated. Watch out for Land Rover gangs racing up to the Florida Strata road.
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Lovely mix of fire road to start with and then a huge climb up and over into a valley that time forgot - perfect single track - although can be a bit muddy in places. Probably best to make sure there has not been too much rain in the week before riding this route - and in the winter be prepared for quick changes of weather and plummeting temperatures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Halfway Forest?
The gravel bike trails in Halfway Forest offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find routes transitioning from ancient woodlands to conifer plantations, with varied gradients across forest roads and old tracks. Expect a combination of mostly paved surfaces and gravel, along with some enjoyable singletrack sections that are not overly technical. The landscape also features tranquil grassy gorges and stunning views of the surrounding Mid Wales mountains.
Are there any easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners in Halfway Forest?
While many of the popular routes in Halfway Forest are rated as difficult due to significant elevation gains and longer distances, the broader Crychan Forest area, which includes Halfway Forest, offers a range of options. Some sections of the waymarked trails are suitable for varying skill levels. For a challenging but rewarding experience, consider routes like the Chrychan Forest – Singletrack Gravel Path loop from Esgair Fwyog Picnic Site, which, despite its difficulty rating, offers diverse terrain within a manageable distance.
What are some of the longer, more challenging gravel bike routes in the area?
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a significant challenge, Halfway Forest and its surroundings offer demanding routes with considerable elevation. The Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop from Llandovery is a difficult 80.2 km path featuring substantial climbs. Another option is the Llandovery Castle Ruins – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Llandovery, a 90.9 km trail through challenging gravel terrain, often taking over six hours to complete.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Halfway Forest?
Yes, many of the gravel biking opportunities in Halfway Forest and the wider Crychan Forest are designed as loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics easier. For example, the Chrychan Forest – Singletrack Gravel Path loop from Esgair Fwyog Picnic Site is a popular circular option.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the gravel trails?
Halfway Forest is rich in natural beauty. As you cycle, you can expect to encounter tranquil grassy gorges, discover cascading waterfalls, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Mid Wales mountains. The forest itself is a mix of ancient woodlands with oak, ash, beech, and hazel, alongside conifer plantations. You might also spot diverse wildlife, including goshawks, buzzards, red kites, and roe deer. Remnants of old, ivy-clad farm ruins can also be found, hinting at the area's history.
Is Halfway Forest suitable for family gravel biking?
Halfway Forest, as part of Crychan Forest, provides many miles of waymarked trails that are generally safe and scenic, often following forest roads and old tracks away from traffic. While some of the featured routes are difficult, there are easier sections and shorter loops within the broader forest network that can be more suitable for families. It's advisable to check specific route details for elevation and distance to ensure they match your family's ability.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails in Halfway Forest?
Yes, Halfway Forest is generally dog-friendly. Many of the trails are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control, especially around wildlife and other forest users. Always ensure your dog is on a lead where required and respect local signage regarding dog access.
Where can I park when visiting Halfway Forest for gravel biking?
Halfway Forest offers designated parking areas. The Halfway car park is a convenient option, providing picnic benches near a stream. Other car parks within the wider Crychan Forest also offer access to the trail network. These car parks typically serve as good starting points for various cycling and walking routes.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options nearby for cyclists?
The town of Llandovery, located near Halfway Forest, serves as a good base for cyclists. It offers various amenities including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. After a ride, you can find places to refuel and relax in Llandovery.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Halfway Forest?
Halfway Forest offers a beautiful experience throughout the seasons. Spring brings bluebells and fresh greenery, while autumn transforms the landscape with golden hues. The diverse terrain and mix of woodlands provide a changing tapestry of colors. Conditions can vary, so checking local weather forecasts and trail conditions before your ride is always recommended, especially during wetter months.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Halfway Forest?
The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Halfway Forest, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which transitions from ancient woodlands to conifer plantations, and the varied gradients across forest roads and old tracks. The opportunity to ride off-road, away from traffic, and feel closer to nature is a frequently highlighted aspect, along with the stunning views of the Mid Wales mountains.
Most popular routes around Halfway Forest
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