The best cycling routes around St. Harmon

There are over 65 touring cycling routes around St. Harmon, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1500 times.

The terrain around St. Harmon is diverse, ranging from river valleys along the Afon Marteg and River Wye to the higher moorland and oak woodlands of the Cambrian Mountains. Many routes, especially those in the Elan Valley, feature paved paths alongside reservoirs, while more challenging options may include unpaved segments and significant elevation gains.

Yes, St. Harmon offers several easy touring cycling routes. There are 6 routes classified as easy, and 22 as moderate, many of which are mostly paved and suitable for any fitness level, often with up to 500 ft of elevation gain. These are ideal for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.

Many routes pass by impressive landmarks within the Elan Valley, such as the Caban-Coch Dam and Reservoir and Pen-y-Garreg Dam. The Elan Valley Trail itself is a highlight, offering scenic views. You might also encounter the Clywedog Dam or the Nantgwyllt Church on some tours.

The Elan Valley Trail is particularly well-suited for families, offering picturesque rides along the reservoirs on mostly paved paths. While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly categorized, many of the moderate routes, such as the Elan Valley Trail – Craig Goch Dam loop from Rhayader, are manageable for families with some cycling experience.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around St. Harmon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Elan Valley and Pont-rhyd-y-groes loop from Rhayader and the Elan Valley Trail – Claerwen Dam loop from Rhayader.

The area's natural beauty, including the River Wye and Elan Valley, is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved sections might be challenging due to weather conditions.

Absolutely. For those seeking longer rides, routes like the Elan Valley Trail – River Wye loop from Welcome Gateway cover nearly 80 km (50 miles) with significant elevation, providing a substantial challenge and extended exploration of the region's landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from around 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning scenery of the Elan Valley, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from gentle lakeside rides to challenging mountain ascents.

While St. Harmon itself is a small village, the nearby town of Rhayader, often a starting point for Elan Valley routes, offers amenities such as cafes and pubs. Cyclists can plan their routes to include stops in these towns for refreshments and breaks.

Public transport options directly to the starting points of all routes in St. Harmon may be limited due to its rural location. However, Rhayader, a common access point for many Elan Valley routes, is more accessible and can serve as a base for exploring the area by bike.

For routes starting in the Elan Valley, designated parking areas are available, particularly around the visitor centers and dams. If starting directly from St. Harmon, local parking options might be available, but it's advisable to check specific starting points for suitable parking facilities.