The Clwyds loop from Ruthin — Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape

Embark on The Clwyds loop from Ruthin for a challenging gravel biking adventure through the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape. This difficult route spans 18.2 miles (29.4 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2382 feet (726 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You'll navigate a diverse mix of paved and unpaved sections, including compacted gravel, singletrack, and quiet country roads, often encountering undulating hills and forest tracks. Look forward to spectacular views from Bwlch Penbarras and panoramic vistas over the Vale of Clwyd, with the distinctive heather-clad hills of the Clwydian Range forming a dramatic backdrop. Be prepared for rocky and loose descents that demand good balance and technique, especially if conditions are wet.

This route is considered difficult and requires a very good level of fitness and advanced riding skills. The varied terrain includes steep climbs, exhilarating berms, and loose descents, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike. For optimal handling, particularly in muddy conditions, wider, knobbly tires are highly recommended. Ensure you are well-prepared for a demanding ride that will test your physical endurance and technical abilities.

The Clwyds loop stands out as a premier gravel biking destination in North Wales due to its diverse and demanding terrain. It offers a blend of physical challenge and rewarding natural beauty within the stunning Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region is known for its dramatic uplands, ancient hillforts, and rich cultural heritage, providing a tapestry of heather moorland, limestone crags, and broadleaved woodlands to explore.