Overview
Climb three iconic mountains in Wales whilst cycling in between them along some of the finest roads in the UK. This is a tough and unique challenge that passes through the dramatic scenery of two National Parks, through mountainous landscapes among jagged peaks and endless natural beauty.
Highlights
- Summiting the highest mountain in Wales, Snowdon (1085m)
- Descending the vast valleys of North, Mid and South wales by bicycle
- Travelling through some of the finest landscapes in the UK
- Exploring two National Parks – Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons
- Completing a truly unique UK challenge
Single room option is an additional £220 which can be added upon booking.
Cycling ‐ There are some significant climbs throughout this trip so it is essential you are prepared for this. In addition to having some climbing experience, you should also be confident on long descents. You will be cycling for between six and eight hours on some days but this is not a race! This is a group trip and we like to cycle as such. You will be cycling through rolling countryside which can be hilly, and the pace will be determined by your Cycle Leader. If you are unable to keep to this moderate pace, you will be asked to travel in the support vehicle.
Trekking – It is essential that you have experience trekking. The longest walking day is Cadair Idris which should take around 6 hours so we strongly recommend you have experience walking for several hours in mountainous terrain. Please be aware that cycling and walking are two very different disciplines so will need to be trained for individually.
You must prepare before coming on the trip, anything cardiovascular will help as will of course cycling and walking with a small rucksack in the boots you’ll be wearing on the trip. You will need to get some hill practice in!
We can provide you with a training plan but you will need to be comfortable cycling for several hours at a time through hilly terrain. If you are unsure or require our training plan, please contact us on info@moreadventure.co.uk.
Our Star Ratings
Here is an explanation of our cycling trip grades. Please bear in mind that total ascent, wind and general riding conditions can play as important factors as the daily distances involved. Whilst we have stated some example distances, the overall difficulty assigned to each trip will encompass a range of these factors. If you are at all unsure of whether you think the trip is suitable, please contact us.
Easy: Suitable for those new to cycling seeking an introductory and very relaxed yet active experience on two wheels. Easy riding on short, flat and/or gently undulating routes. Approx 20 – 40 miles a day
Relaxed: Undulating terrain with occasional minor undulations for semi-regular novices who wish to develop fitness and ability. May include a few short steep climbs. Approx 40 – 50 miles a day
Moderate: Designed for cyclists with a good level of riding experience and fitness, and are comfortable riding for full days in the saddle. Routes will include some steep and/or sustained climbs. Not for those new to cycling. Approx 50 – 80 miles a day
Challenging: Routes with multiple steep and sustained climbs and technical descents and/or long distances. Riders need to be have a high level of fitness and stamina in addition to experience in riding over extended distances and/or tackling long ascents and descents. Approx 70 – 110 miles a day
Advanced: Designed for experienced cyclists with an excellent level of fitness and stamina. Routes are consistently long with multiple serious and steep ascents and descents throughout. High altitude ascents may be undertaken followed by technically demanding descents. Approx 80 – 120 miles a day
Itinerary
Day 1: Pen-y-Pas evening briefing
We’ll meet near Pen-y-Pas for an evening briefing. This will also be an opportunity to ask any last minute questions and meet the rest of the team. After a comprehensive briefing from the More Adventure leaders, we’ll get an early night and prepare for the following day. Overnight near Pen-y-Pass.
Day 2: Pen-y-Pas to Dolgellau
Climb Snowdon; Cycle 36 miles to Dolgellau
After breakfast we’ll congregate at Pen-y-Pas car park ready to begin our ascent of our first mountain, Snowdon. At 1085 metres, Snowdon is the highest of our Welsh peaks but with fresh legs it should be no problem at all. Once we’re back at Pen-y-Pas we’ll change into our cycling gear and begin our first ride of the trip to Dolgellau. The route takes us on a long descent to the pretty village of Beddgelert before crossing the river Dwyryd then continuing south to Dolgellau. Overnight in Dolgellau.
Day 3: Dolgellau to Machynlleth
Cycle 7 miles; Climb Cadair Idris (893m); Cycle 9 miles
We’ll leave Dolgellau in the morning and cycle to Cadair Gates for our second mountain ascent. Cadair Idris is arguably one of Wales’ understated peaks, is usually far less busy than other peaks in Snowdonia and is a fantastic climb. Once back off the mountain, we’ll jump back onto our bikes for a short ride to Machynlleth. Overnight in Machynlleth.
Day 4: Machynlleth to Brecon
Cycle 70 miles
From Machynlleth we begin cycling through some of the finest roads in mid-Wales. There are a few stiff climbs today but hopefully (weather depending!) the views will make up for it. Our route heads south-east into the hills towards Llyn Clywedog then onto the small village of Rhayader. From here we cycle directly south through Builth Wells and onto the pretty town of Brecon. Overnight in Brecon.
Day 5: Brecon to Pen-y-Fan to Brecon
Cycle 8 miles; Climb Pen-y-Fan (886m); Cycle 8 miles
Our final day begins with a cycle up to the Storey Arms which is the start of our final mountain climb. Pen-y-Fan is the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons National Park and is also the training ground for the military. We should reach the summit before lunch before descending back down to the Storey Arms then cycle down to Brecon. Congratulations – you made it! It’s a short ride back down to Brecon where we’ll have a meal and perhaps a few drinks to celebrate. Overnight Brecon.
Day 6: Brecon
After breakfast you, your bicycles and luggage will be transferred to Abergavenny train station where the trip ends and we say our goodbyes.
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