Gospel Pass (Bwlch yr Efengyl)
Gospel Pass (Bwlch yr Efengyl)
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Gospel Pass (Bwlch yr Efengyl)
Road cycling
5.0
(94)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
July 9, 2018
Road cycling
June 26, 2019
Road cycling
July 23, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Gospel Pass (Bwlch yr Efengyl)
4.7
(7)
255
riders
Embark on a challenging racebike loop from Abergavenny, taking you through the stunning Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. This difficult 53.3-mile (85.8 km) route, typically completed in around 4 hours and 10 minutes, features a significant 3500 feet (1067 metres) of elevation gain. You will experience a varied landscape, from quiet, well-paved roads to some narrow, remote sections that can be unpaved or difficult. Enjoy sweeping vistas across the Black Mountains, including peaks like Twmpa and Hay Bluff, and the distant Wye Valley. The dramatic open moorland is often dotted with wild Welsh mountain ponies and sheep, adding to the immense wild beauty of the ride.
Prepare for a demanding ride, especially on the ascent of Gospel Pass, which includes steep initial ramps that can exceed 15% gradients. While most roads are quiet, some sections may be narrow and remote. Be ready for potentially rough, potholed single-track sections, cattle grids, and occasional gravelly or wet patches from water runoff. The route passes through the charming towns of Crickhowell and Hay-on-Wye, offering opportunities for breaks and refreshments.
This loop is renowned for including Gospel Pass, Wales's highest paved road, reaching an elevation of 549 meters (1,801 feet). The climb is a significant challenge, often compared to a scaled-down version of famed Alpine ascents. Beyond the demanding climbs, the route is celebrated for its diverse and stunning scenery, ranging from mountain views to peaceful river valleys. You can also visit historical sites like the spectacular ruins of Llanthony Priory, which even houses a pub.
4.7
(6)
231
riders
81.8km
03:59
1,010m
1,010m
Embark on a difficult 50.8-mile (81.8 km) road cycling loop from Hay-on-Wye, tackling the renowned Gospel Pass and the Black Mountains. This challenging route features the highest paved road in Wales, demanding very good fitness as you ascend 3299 feet (1006 metres) of elevation gain. Expect gradients of 15% or more in sections, along with narrow mountain roads and occasionally poor or gravelly surfaces. The ride, which typically takes around 3 hours and 59 minutes, rewards you with panoramic views of the Black Mountains, the wider Brecon Beacons National Park, and the distant Wye Valley, showcasing open moorland and dramatic peaks like Twmpa and Hay Bluff. The 12-mile descent into the Vale of Ewyas is particularly scenic after the climb.
Starting in Hay-on-Wye, known as the "town of books," adds a charming element to your journey. Be prepared for a demanding ride; while the route is predominantly on paved surfaces, some segments can be challenging due to their condition. Given the significant elevation and distance, plan for a substantial outing, ensuring you have adequate supplies and are ready for a full day's effort on the bike. The route's challenging nature means you should assess your fitness before setting out.
This loop is celebrated as one of the best road-based climbs in British cycling, with the Gospel Pass forming part of National Cycle Network Route 42. Along the way, you can pause at historical landmarks such as the partly ruined Llanthony Priory. The combination of tough climbs, rewarding descents, and breathtaking natural beauty makes this a highly notable and memorable road cycling experience, often compared to scaled-down climbs found in the Alps and Pyrenees.
4.7
(3)
83
riders
The Gospel Pass & Pandy loop from Hay-on-Wye offers a challenging road cycling experience through the majestic Black Mountains. You will encounter varied terrain, including long, arduous climbs and descents, with gradients often reaching 15% on the Gospel Pass ascent. This moderate 35.9-mile (57.8 km) route features an elevation gain of 2821 feet (860 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete. From the summit of Gospel Pass, the highest road pass in Wales, you can enjoy expansive views across the Black Mountains, including Twmpa and Hay Bluff, and the distant Wye Valley. The route also passes by the historic Llanthony Abbey, providing a scenic stop.
Be prepared for mixed road surfaces on this route; while mostly asphalt, some segments can be unpaved, rough, or have potholes, requiring careful navigation. You might also encounter gravelly sections and water run-off. Much of the Gospel Pass road is a narrow, single track with passing places, so be mindful of oncoming traffic, especially on steep sections. Cattle grids are also present along the way. Given the exposed sections above 500 metres altitude, be ready for varying weather conditions, as it can be cold, windy, or wet.
This loop is renowned for Gospel Pass, which is the highest paved road in Wales, making it a significant cycling achievement. The area offers a strong sense of remoteness and traverses wild, untamed Welsh beauty, often with sheep crossing the road. The pass's name is said to originate from medieval monks, adding a historical layer to your ride. This route is also part of Route 42 of the National Cycle Network, highlighting its appeal for cyclists seeking iconic rides.
Details
Informations
Distance 12.1 km
Uphill 400 m
Downhill 230 m
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Monday 20 July
25°C
8°C
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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