The best gravel rides around Llanidloes

There are over 6 gravel bike routes available around Llanidloes on komoot, offering a variety of experiences through the Cambrian Mountains, Hafren Forest, and Elan Valley. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars.

The terrain around Llanidloes is diverse, ranging from smooth forest gravel roads in areas like Hafren Forest to wild and remote tracks and challenging mountain passes within the Cambrian Mountains. You'll encounter a mix of farmland, open hills, and forests, often with significant elevation gains.

Yes, Llanidloes is known for its challenging gravel routes. Many trails feature substantial elevation gains and cover long distances, requiring good fitness and advanced riding skills. For example, the Craig Goch Dam – Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir loop from Llanidloes is a difficult 116.8 km route with over 2,100 meters of ascent.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Cambrian Mountains. You can also explore the impressive Victorian dams and reservoirs of the Elan Valley, such as the Craig Goch Dam and Caban-Coch Dam. The Hafren Forest is home to the source of the River Severn and features picturesque waterfalls like the Hafren Cascades Boardwalk. The Clywedog Dam and its reservoir are also prominent features in the landscape.

Absolutely. The Hafren Forest is a key area for gravel biking near Llanidloes. A popular route is the Start of Climb Up the Severn – Rhyd-y-Benwch, Hafren Forest loop from Llanidloes, which takes you through its smooth gravel roads and past the source of the River Severn. You can also visit the Hafren Cascades Boardwalk within the forest.

While many routes in the immediate Llanidloes area are rated as 'difficult' due to significant elevation and distance, there is a 'moderate' option available: the Hafren Forest Boardwalk – Hafren Forest Lane loop from Staylittle. This 21.4 km route offers a less strenuous experience within the beautiful Hafren Forest, which might be more suitable for families with some biking experience.

The best time for gravel biking in Llanidloes is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the trails are drier, making for more enjoyable riding conditions. The Cambrian Mountains can be exposed, so checking the weather forecast is always recommended.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Llanidloes are designed as loops. For instance, the Craig Goch Dam – Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir loop from Llanidloes and the Start of Climb Up the Severn – Rhyd-y-Benwch, Hafren Forest loop from Llanidloes are both excellent circular options that bring you back to your starting point.

Llanidloes, as a hub for outdoor activities, offers various parking options within the town. Specific parking details for individual trailheads are often available on the respective komoot Tour pages or local council websites. For general information about Llanidloes, you might find details on Visit Mid Wales.

While specific cafes or pubs directly on the more remote gravel routes might be limited, Llanidloes itself offers a selection of cafes and pubs where cyclists can refuel before or after their rides. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes, as services can be sparse in the more remote sections of the Cambrian Mountains.

The Elan Valley, located west of Llanidloes, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, impressive Victorian dams, and a mix of wild and remote gravel tracks. It offers a unique and challenging gravel biking experience, with routes like the Craig Goch Dam – Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir loop from Llanidloes allowing riders to explore its iconic reservoirs and scenic back roads.

Yes, the hills surrounding Llanidloes have a rich mining history, with evidence of old silver and lead mines still visible. Some scenic routes, particularly those connecting Llanidloes to Machynlleth, traverse areas where these historical sites can be observed, adding a cultural dimension to your gravel biking adventure. The remains of the Bryntail Lead Mines near Llyn Clywedog are a notable example.