NORTH WALES BALA

This ride is all about the Bwlch-y-Groes, a terrifying road that has tormented riders since it was first laid down. But you have to build some tension first, so head south-east out of Bala into the Hirnant valley to take on the Hirnant Pass. This rugged, testing climb leads over to Lake Vyrnwy where you head west to ride the easiest side of the Bwlch-y-Groes. Although tough, there’s nothing to be feared about this ascent, and when you reach the top you turn right to swoop down to the A494, deep in the valley.

Following the main road as it undulates west, you then head south and back east via a nasty little climb on the A470 to Dinas Mawddwy, where you turn to face your fate. For a number of kilometres, you roll through the quiet lanes while up ahead lies one of the most feared climbs in Britain.

Just after Llanymawddwy, the slope kicks up steeply and gets steeper until you reach the last 500m, which seem to be stuck on a permanent 18 per cent. Thankfully, you turn right before the true summit, drop back down to Lake Vyrnwy, head back over the Hirnant Pass and home to finish in Bala.