An excellent ride on varied surfaces, including grass, track, rock and rut, and with a relatively small proportion of very minor road. It feels somewhat longer than the 27km due to the nature of the riding surfaces. There area couple of long climbs but several more short ones to sap the legs. All of which means that plenty of time will be spent climbing, but also out of the saddle. The final descent is excellent but will drain tired legs and arms so make sure you’ve re-fuelled before you hit this section. Expect great views and some adventure with potential for extending the route to the south or shortening it to the west. There is an excellent picnic/viewpoint part way up the climb above the Pen-y-gwely reservoir.

History buffs may wish to know that the Battle of Crogen took place near Tregeiriog in 1165. This saw Owain Gwynedd lead an alliance of Welsh princes to an unexpected victory against Henry II English army.

Conditions:

The route will be possible in all but the very worst winter conditions when drifting snow may cause problems on some of the higher sections.

Approach:

Start in Tregeiriog; there is organised parking in the area behind the bus shelter and phone box in the centre of this tiny hamlet. Alternatively, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog is only 2km further up the valley and has more facilities and space.