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DISCOVER the lesserknown cycling gems in Wales, home of Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas.
Bwlch y Groes, Gwynedd: Not for the fainthearted, this is the highest tarmacked pass in Wales and a tough ascent over two miles, with sweeping views at the top, making the climb worth it.
Elan Valley, Powys: The 14km Elan Valley Trail is an ideal starter to off-road cycling. The route runs past three reservoirs, plus there’s a café at The Elan Valley Visitor Centre.
Brailsford Way, Snowdonia: Named after Sir David Brailsford, one of the most prominent figures in British cycling, the Way passes through the UNESCO World Heritage site from the Menai Strait and on to Caernarfon Castle. The 13th Century castles of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd in Dolbadarn (Llanberis) and Dolwyddelan are also on the route.
Harbour to highlands, Snowdonia: Ride along the western flank of the Rhinogydd range, the most secluded and leastvisited of all the mountains in the park. Start at Porthmadog and travel past the Italianate village of Portmeirion before crossing the newly-rebuilt Pont Briwet road bridge. Travel up deserted lanes, stop for a paddle at the Nantcol Waterfalls and work your way around Dyffryn Ardudwy before heading back north to Harlech Castle.
Cliff and castle, Pembrokeshire: This route runs for four miles from
the sea stacks and the Green Bridge of Wales sea arch to the tiny chapel of St Govan’s, in the limestone cliffs. It begins in Pembroke and passes a Norman fortress before looping to West Angle Bay and the Castlemartin Firing Range. Pass two more beautiful beaches, South Broad Haven and Stackpole, before returning to the starting point.
Lon Eifion, Caernarfon: Take in 20km of scenic views and historical landmarks, starting in Caernarfon and finishing in Bryncir. The trail starts near Caernarfon Castle and travels along the Welsh Highland Railway. Views of Snowdonia and Caernarfon
Bay.