Cycling in North Wales
In addition to its many scenic lanes and quiet back roads, North Wales boasts two cycling networks and some of the UK's best mountain biking trails.
Details of a number of recognised cycle routes can be found below to help you enjoy the best of North Wales. Alternatively if you are looking for a guided cycle ride, need to hire bikes or want to perfect your mountain biking techniques whilst on holiday, please read on for details of local organisations that can help.
Anglesey Rural Cycling Network
Anglesey has recommended cycle routes for two wheeled naturalists, historians, ornithologists, and bikers of all ages.
The island is relatively flat – though there are some surprising and challenging undulations! Recognised routes will take you past smugglers’ coves, cliffs, lighthouses, ancient churches, Stone Age burial chambers...and you can finish up with a swim on a secluded beach, or have a pint in a seaside village pub.
We are especially proud of the Island’s newest routes: Lôn Las Cefni, a dedicated cycle path which invites you to ride on flat terrain from the enchantment of Newborough Forest on the west side of the Island, to the picturesque Cefni reservoir beyond Llangefni and Lôn Las Copr, a longer route on the north of the Island taking in the historic port of Amlwch and it's copper mine.
Click here for maps and descriptions of each of the recommended routes.
Gwynedd Cycling Network
Gwynedd has over 50.5 kilometres (31½miles) of easy to find, free to use recreational routes for walking and cycling which are called Lonydd Glas (Recreational Routes). There are five Lonydd Glas to be found in Gywnedd.
These distinctive paths, situated in the picturesque Gwynedd countryside, have been established along disused railway lines and now form an extensive network. The paths have been signposted and are easy to use, with most public services such as telephones and shops to be found at local villages.
What better way to enjoy Gwynedd's green countryside than by following the Lonydd Glas network?
Mountain Biking in Snowdonia
Mountain bike Mecca, Coed-y-Brenin forest is home to an ever increasing network of fantastic handbuilt all weather tracks and even a dual slalom course. The technical roller coaster riding will have you grinning like a fool, with stunning mountain views of surrounding Snowdonia and the coast that'll take your breath away.
From the 'Temtiwr' & 'Yr Afon' trails, the famous Tarw and 'MBR' trails through to the strenuous technical singletrack of the "Dragon's Back" and The Beast of Brenin, there are days of fantastic riding for everyone from families to the World-class racers who train here regularly.
The purpose-built visitor centre offers hot drinks, snacks, main meals, bike hire and a fully equipped shop.
Just a short drive away is Betws y Coed, home of the famous 25km Marin Route. Two further routes, totalling 50km are soon to open to the south of the village. For less adventurous riders there is the Llyn Elsi Ride – a 10km forest ride up to the reservoir above the village.
For a comprehensive guide to mountain biking in Wales click here.
Bike Hire
Bike HireA number of bike shops hire both adult and children's bikes as well as other cycling equipment in the area.
Anglesey: Isle of Anglesey Bike & Kayak Hire
07748 872295
Based in Beaumaris offering both bike & kayak hire. They can also arrange for delivery to your holiday cottage or chosen destination.
Anglesey & Caernarfon: Menai Cycles
01286 676804
From their main shop in the shadows of Caernarfon Castle, Menai Cycles is ideally placed for access to the Lôn Eifion and Lôn Menai cycle routes. Bikes are also available to hire from Llys Llewelyn Heritage Centre, Aberffraw and the Garden & Nurseries Centre, Pentraeth - please call to arrange.
Snowdonia: Beddgelert Bikes
01766 890434
Within easy access of numerous trails in the nearby forest - all routes clearly marked with numbered posts.
Snowdonia: Beics Betws
01690 710766
Home of the famous 25km Marin Route, Betws y Coed will soon see two further routes opening to the south of the village, totalling 50km. For less adventurous riders there is the Llyn Elsi Ride - a 10km forest ride up to the reservoir above the village. Alternatively, cyclists can enjoy the scenic lanes and back roads.
Snowdonia: Beics Brenin
01341 440728
Located in the Coed y Brenin Visitors' Centre, Dolgellau with access to some of the UK's best mountain bike trails.
Guiding, Tuition & Additional Routes
If you would like to give mountain biking a go, but aren't sure how to get started why not book a course or guided session?
Our own Mountain Biking 2 Day break is available throughout the year and is tailored to your group's ability and experience. Or you could try:
Tyred Out
offers mountain biking courses and guiding services for all levels of
experience - enabling you to develop the skills needed for this
irresistible sport. They offer one or two day courses that include
elements of coaching and instruction and use a variety of terrains to
develop your skills. All specialist equipment and transport to and from
the trailhead provided. Penmachno.
Tel: 01690 760 181
Snow Bikers
offer a variety of courses for beginners, families, ladies-only and
advanced riders and a range of half and full-day "Ride with a Guide"
sessions from their base in Dolgellau. Bike hire available.
Tel: 01341 430628 / 07909 996983
1Bike1
are a training and bike hire company based in Llandudno. Offer a
variety of skills training days, night riding and bike maintenance
courses.
Tel: 01492 878771
Looking for more ideas as to where to cycle?
Cycling North Wales has detailed illustrated cycle rides that start from or pass nearby many of our properties
Sustrans,
the UK's leading sustainable transport charity, has links to various
routes throughout the area as well as a host of other information.
View our selection of cottages most suited to cyclists
