5.0
(6)
511
runners
34
runs
Jogging around Llanwrthwl offers a diverse landscape characterized by an irregular surface, featuring both lofty hills and extensive tracts of level ground, including commons and bogs. The region is situated at the confluence of the River Wye and River Elan, providing scenic riverside paths. The nearby Elan Valley is notable for its reservoirs and mountainous terrain, offering varied running experiences.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
36
runners
15.9km
01:45
190m
190m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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31
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
runners
10.9km
01:15
250m
250m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
runners
7.97km
00:52
120m
120m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful church - well worth exploring
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Great view over Garreg Ddu Dam (not Craig Goch Dam!) after a steep but worthwhile climb
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Basic gift shop and toilets, along with a cafe.
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a place where you can learn a bit of Elan Valley history
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Elan Valley is a mountain bikers dream. A mix of natural trails that follow the reservoirs and crest the lofty tops of each valley. There's also a great trailhead in the middle of the valley at Nantgwyllt for some great flowing singletrack.
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There are over 35 running routes available in the Llanwrthwl area, offering a wide range of experiences for joggers of all levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 500 times, highlighting their popularity.
Llanwrthwl offers a diverse landscape for running. You'll find a mix of terrains, from relatively flat paths along the River Wye and Elan Valley reservoirs to challenging ascents in the 'lofty hills' and 'extensive commons and bogs'. The routes include 1 easy, 24 moderate, and 11 difficult options, ensuring something for every fitness level.
Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there is at least one easy running route available. For those seeking gentler options, the fertile meadows along the River Wye and the established cycle paths around the Elan Valley reservoirs, such as those near Caban-Coch, often provide solid, traffic-free paths with gentle climbs suitable for all-level runners.
Yes, many of the running routes around Llanwrthwl are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Popular examples include the Garreg Ddu to Craig Goch running loop and the Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir loop from Elan Valley Visitor Center, which offer scenic round trips.
The running routes in Llanwrthwl are rich with natural beauty and historical interest. You can expect to see the impressive Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir, as well as the tranquil Gravel Path Along Claerwen Reservoir. The area also features 'lofty hills' offering panoramic views, and ancient cairns on peaks like Drygarn and Gemrhiw, adding a historical dimension to your run.
Yes, the Llanwrthwl area is home to several beautiful waterfalls that can be explored. Notable spots include Wolf's Leap on the River Irfon and the Pont ar Elan Waterfall and Stream. These natural attractions offer picturesque detours or destinations for your run.
The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Llanwrthwl, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners frequently praise the 'diversified, and in many parts highly picturesque' scenery, the variety of terrain from riverside paths to challenging moorland, and the stunning views across the uplands of Brecon and Radnorshire, including the Cambrian mountains.
Yes, Llanwrthwl offers options suitable for families. The Elan Valley, in particular, features cycle paths and gravel paths around its reservoirs that are traffic-free and relatively flat, making them ideal for leisurely family jogs or walks. The 'Cwm Elan (Elan Valley)' route, for example, is described as having a 'solid path, gentle climbs, reservoir views' and is suitable for 'all-level runners'.
Absolutely. For breathtaking vistas, consider routes that ascend the local hills. The 'Llanwrthwl horseshoe walk', for instance, includes ascents of Trembyd mountain (meaning 'View of the world'), Drum Ddu, and Y Gamrhiw, providing 'panoramic views across the uplands of Brecon and Radnorshire, including the 'roof of Wales', the Cambrian mountains'.
Llanwrthwl offers beautiful running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, especially around the reservoirs. While winter can be challenging on higher, exposed trails due to weather, lower-lying paths along the rivers and reservoirs can still be enjoyed, though appropriate gear is essential.
Yes, parking is generally available, especially near popular starting points for routes in the Elan Valley, such as the Elan Valley Visitor Center. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check route details on komoot for designated parking areas or nearby facilities.
While Llanwrthwl itself is a small village, the wider area, particularly around the Elan Valley Visitor Center and nearby towns like Rhayader, offers amenities such as cafes and pubs where you can refuel after your run. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or near these spots if you're looking for refreshments.
Yes, several routes incorporate historical elements. The local hills feature ancient cairns, including those on Drygarn and Gemrhiw, which you might encounter on more challenging trail runs like the 'Llanwrthwl horseshoe walk'. Additionally, the Nantgwyllt Church is a notable historical site that some routes pass by.


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