This is a Big Day ride, most suited for Ebikes. Consisting of 3 main climbs on a mostly Forest type of ride, no lakes or Waterfalls, excellent views of the different valleys and of Moel Siabod. The only café on this ride is at around 27km (Ugly House), although there is a Spar shop with outside undercover seating and a coffee machine at around 21km in Dolwyddelan.
Route9 Photos
This is a tough ride and should only be chosen by fit confident riders.
The start of the ride is along a quiet road to the A470 where there is a short cycle route off road beside the A470. Then a small bridge is crossed and a long quiet up hill road is ridden above the Conwy River. Once at the top of this road the route goes off-road with a long climb up to and above Penmachno village. This is a very quiet forest area, few people, although horse riders may be met. Please slow down for horses.
Eventually you will reach the Lledr valley which has the river Lledr flowing through it. Following this valley upstream will bring you to Dolwyddelan village if you would like to visit the Spar shop for refreshments. If not, the route will turn off before Dolwyddelan across a pretty footbridge across the Lledr river.
Then a gentle climb through the forest until you reach the open Moorland below Moel Siabod. This is a very interesting ride across the moor which brings you to the tricky difficult rocky descent into Capel Curig, many people walk this descent. Thereafter a quiet road brings you to the A5 at the Ugly House café, take care crossing the bridge! After the café there is a short climb, 3 min on a quiet road before turning Right back into the forest. After 15 min or so a quiet beautiful road is reached which brings you back into Betws.
This ride should not be chosen if you cannot self-repair a bike puncture as some areas are very remote.
Duration depends on fitness levels and the size of group. Large groups tend to move slower.
Bikes come equipped with Spare Inner tube /repair kit and map. Please return after use.
Garmin Satnav is available for hire to make navigation easy or a GPX file can be emailed if you want to use your own bike computer or phone.
