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May 3, 2018
Cycling
September 1, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Llyn Clywedog
2.0
(1)
16
riders
31.7km
02:10
510m
510m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle ride around the Llyn Clywedog loop, starting from Llanidloes. This route covers 19.7 miles (31.7 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 1681 feet (512 metres), making it a difficult journey that takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will experience the varied contours of the Welsh hills, cycling closely alongside the striking Llyn Clywedog reservoir. Keep an eye out for the Hafren Forest Waterfall as you pass through the expansive Hafren Forest, enjoying panoramic views of the Upper Severn Valley from higher elevations. The atmosphere is one of serene natural beauty, with rolling hills stretching into the distance.
Your touring bicycle adventure begins and ends in Llanidloes, a welcoming town known for its distinctive Old Market Hall. Parking is generally available in Llanidloes, making it a convenient spot to start your ride. The roads along this loop are typically traffic-free, which contributes to a more pleasant cycling experience. Plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the engineering marvel of the Llyn Clywedog reservoir, which was created by damming the Clywedog river. The reservoir is a central feature of the landscape, providing ever-changing views as you cycle its perimeter. Beyond the reservoir, the trail showcases the broader natural beauty of the region, from the dense Hafren Forest to the sweeping vistas of the Upper Severn Valley. It is a journey through both natural and man-made landscapes.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
30.1km
02:14
660m
660m
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure around the Llyn Clywedog loop from Llanidloes, covering 18.7 miles (30.1 km) with a substantial 2172 feet (662 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging route, typically completed in about 2 hours and 13 minutes, takes you through varied terrain, including paved roads, single-track, and short unpaved sections. You will experience a long, gentle climb out of Llanidloes, followed by undulating sections and two steep ascents near the reservoir, all while enjoying expansive views of the Welsh countryside.
Planning your ride requires good to very good fitness levels, as the sustained ascents make this loop less suitable for beginners. The route starts and finishes in the scenic town of Llanidloes, offering a convenient base for your journey. Be ready for the demanding climbs, especially one away from the lake that rewards you with spectacular vistas extending towards the English border.
Along the way, you will encounter several notable features that enrich the experience. Marvel at the impressive Llyn Clywedog Reservoir and its 72-meter high dam, a central landmark of the loop. Cycle through the beautiful Hafren Forest, known for its natural beauty, and pass the historic abandoned Bryntail Mine Buildings, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including ospreys, red kites, buzzards, and ravens, particularly within the forest.
9
riders
141km
09:42
2,370m
2,370m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 300 m
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