The best gravel rides around Llanddew
4.6
(14)
119
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking around Llanddew offers diverse terrain, primarily characterized by its network of canal paths and reservoir trails. The region features relatively gentle gradients along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, providing accessible routes for various skill levels. Further inland, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and reservoir surroundings, with some routes incorporating more significant elevation changes. This mix of waterways and undulating countryside defines the gravel biking experience in the area.
Best gravel bike trails around Llanddew
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.3
(3)
22
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
riders
62.7km
03:43
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
31
riders
43.5km
02:23
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
29
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
87.0km
05:23
1,300m
1,300m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It's a beautiful canal but what is amazing is that it runs all the way to Brecon
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gorgeous views, very popular with walkers, so be aware
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ideal for cycling, road bike would do it although gravel/mtb would be more comfortable. very popular with walkers so be aware
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A wooden drawbridge carried the road over the canal and was replaced by a fixed bridge after navigation on the canal ceased in the 1930s. Before the canal reopened to boats in 1970, a steel drawbridge with an electric operating mechanism was installed. There are four other drawbridges along the canal to the west. They are for farmers to access fields and are less elaborate than the one at Talybont. Drawbridges saved the canal company the expense of building stone bridges over the canal at these locations.
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This structure is one of the largest canal aqueducts ever built in South Wales. Its four stone arches carry the Brecknock and Abergavenny Canal (later the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal) across the Usk to enable boats to reach Brecon, on the north side of the river Brynich aqueduct was one of the last sections of the canal to be completed to take the canal into Brecon in 1801. The structure was designed by Thomas Dadford Junior and built by local contractors. The aqueduct is at right angles to the river, reducing its length to the minimum possible. This means that the canal, running parallel to the river, has to turn sharply on both approaches.
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This lock was the first on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal to be restored after the canal fell into dereliction. The lock was created when the canal was built c.1800. The section of canal which crosses the river Usk on the nearby Brynich aqueduct is lower than the final stretch of water into Brecon. The bridge over the canal here is joined to the lock walls. The road continues across the river Usk on a five-arch stone bridge constructed in the late 18th century.
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Pretty stone bridge over the canal near the River Usk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Llanddew?
There are 6 gravel bike trails recorded in the Llanddew area on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Llanddew?
Yes, Llanddew offers several easy gravel bike trails. For instance, the Brynich Aqueduct – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop from Brecon is an easy 12.9-mile route that follows the historic canal with gentle gradients.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes in the Llanddew area?
For those seeking a challenge, the Talybont Reservoir – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop from Libanus is a difficult 54-mile route with significant elevation changes, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Llanddew?
The gravel biking terrain around Llanddew is diverse, featuring a network of canal paths, reservoir trails, and rolling hills. You'll find relatively gentle gradients along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, transitioning to more undulating countryside with greater elevation changes further inland.
Are the gravel bike routes around Llanddew suitable for families?
Many of the canal path sections, like those found on the Brynich Aqueduct – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop from Brecon, are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for families and less experienced riders. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and distance.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the gravel routes?
While riding, you might encounter views of prominent natural landmarks. Some routes offer glimpses of summits like Pen y Fan or Corn Du summit, and you'll pass the historic Brynich Aqueduct on several canal loops.
Are most of the gravel bike trails in Llanddew loop routes?
Yes, many of the popular gravel bike trails in Llanddew are designed as loop routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Talybont Reservoir – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop from Brecon and the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal – Brynich Aqueduct loop from Talybont-on-Usk.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Llanddew?
The gravel bike trails in Llanddew are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied scenery, from tranquil canal paths to the more challenging reservoir and hill sections.
How does gravel biking in Llanddew compare to the wider Brecon Beacons area?
Llanddew's gravel biking is characterized by its distinct focus on canal paths and reservoir trails, offering a unique blend of flat, accessible routes and more undulating terrain around the reservoirs. While part of the broader Brecon Beacons, Llanddew provides a specific experience centered on its waterways and surrounding countryside.
What is the longest gravel bike route available in Llanddew?
The longest gravel bike route listed is the Talybont Reservoir – Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal loop from Libanus, which spans approximately 54 miles (87 km) and includes significant elevation gain.
Are there any moderate difficulty gravel bike trails in Llanddew?
Yes, there are several moderate options. The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal loop from Llanfrynach is a moderate 39-mile route that combines canal sections with some rolling terrain, offering a good balance for intermediate riders.
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