4.5
(17)
430
riders
25
rides
Touring cycling around Talybont-On-Usk offers diverse terrain within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. The region features the serene Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal with its traffic-free towpaths, the tranquil Talybont Reservoir, and the scenic Usk Valley with winding country lanes. Talybont Forest provides hilly off-road sections, contributing to a varied cycling landscape.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
43
riders
Embark on a difficult touring cycling loop from Torpantau, exploring the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. This challenging 15.2-mile (24.4 km) route features a mix of paved roads and…
5.0
(3)
38
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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39
riders
23.6km
01:39
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
39
riders
17.4km
01:39
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
27
riders
18.6km
01:37
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Torpantau Tunnel is a closed-down, 666-yard-long abandoned masonry railway tunnel in Wales that was opened in 1863 and closed down in 1963. It was part of the Brecon and Merthyr Railway line and, at 1,313 feet above sea level, was the highest tunnel on the UK railway network. Now it is disused but is often used as part of team building and adventure walks by local activity providers. If you are thinking of using it, you will need wellingtons (which will just about keep you dry) and a head torch. It is a brilliant place to lead a group of kids through and jump out to scare them half to death.
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the lower reservoir has a nice flat road next to it, a welcome relief after the lumpy roads that lead to it from either direction.
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Great views and a very large plug hole at the end of the Dam
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Handy place to stop for refreshments in either direction
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This reservoir is located in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons of Wales. It is part of a series of reservoirs within the Taff Fechan Valley and was constructed between 1923 and 1927 to supply water to the South Wales Valleys and Cardiff. It's a gorgeous location to enjoy some time out in nature and features walking trails, woodland and lovely surrounding views.
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There are some lovely gravel rides around the reservoir starting from the base of the East bank, as well as a bumpier ride down the old coal track down into Talybont which conveniently ends at a pub!
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Talybont Reservoir is a great asset to the local scenery and is easy on the eye. It is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, but it is disappointing that this big water source can't be used for water recreation purposes.
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Fantastic area, if it’s gravel your after some of the fire roads around here are absolutely amazing with stunning views 👌
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There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Talybont-On-Usk, offering a diverse range of experiences within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.
The touring cycling routes in Talybont-On-Usk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 17 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from serene canal towpaths to scenic reservoir circuits and hilly forest sections, providing options for different ability levels.
Yes, Talybont-On-Usk offers several easy and family-friendly options. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal towpath provides a traffic-free and relatively flat ride. Another great option is the 5.5-mile traffic-free trail from Talybont Reservoir to Torpantau, which offers a fun descent. For a gentle loop, consider the Talybont Reservoir – Talybont Reservoir loop from Aber, which is rated as moderate but generally accessible.
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Talybont-On-Usk has several demanding routes. The Talybont-on-Usk loop from Torpantau is a difficult 15.2-mile trail with significant elevation changes. Another option is the Pontsticill Reservoir – Taf Fechan Forest gravel track loop from Talybont-on-Usk, a difficult 32.2-mile path that includes an arduous climb and explores forest and reservoir landscapes.
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Talybont-on-Usk loop from Torpantau and the Talybont Reservoir – Talybont-on-Usk Lifting Bridge loop. The Usk Reservoir also offers a fairly easy-going, six-mile traffic-free circuit.
Absolutely. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal offers a serene and traffic-free towpath, perfect for touring cyclists. A popular seven-mile stretch runs from the Brecon Canal Basin to Talybont-On-Usk, with pubs conveniently located along the way for refreshments.
The routes around Talybont-On-Usk are rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past the tranquil Talybont Reservoir, explore the scenic Usk Valley, and venture into Talybont Forest. The wider Brecon Beacons National Park also features majestic peaks like Pen y Fan and Corn Du summit, and beautiful waterfalls along the River Usk and at Blaen-y-Glyn.
Talybont-On-Usk is well-equipped for cyclists. The Talybont Bike Hub, located at the Village Hall, provides off-road parking, public toilets, showers, and a bike wash, making it a convenient starting point for your rides.
Talybont-On-Usk is accessible by public transport, with bus routes connecting to the village. This allows cyclists to reach the area and access the various touring routes, including those that form part of the Taff Trail.
Yes, the region offers amenities for cyclists. The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal towpath has pubs along its stretch. Talybont-On-Usk village itself provides pubs and cafés. You might even encounter an ice cream van near the Talybont Reservoir on warmer days.
Many trails in the Brecon Beacons National Park are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock. The traffic-free canal towpaths and reservoir circuits are generally suitable for cycling with dogs. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
The best time for touring cycling in Talybont-On-Usk is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures, potential ice, and shorter daylight hours.
Yes, Talybont-On-Usk supports its cycling community with local services. Businesses like Bikes and Hikes in Talybont-On-Usk offer bike hire, repair, and servicing. Drover Cycles, based in Hay-on-Wye, also operates in the Brecon Beacons National Park and provides bike rentals and an on-site workshop.


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