The best gravel rides around Cilycwm
4.8
(4)
152
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking around Cilycwm offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and river valleys. The region features a mix of challenging ascents and scenic paths, often following forest tracks and quiet country lanes. Riders can expect varied terrain, including sections around reservoirs and through remote Welsh countryside. The area provides a robust setting for advanced gravel cycling routes.
Best gravel bike trails around Cilycwm
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Llyn Brianne & The Devil's…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
3
riders
80.2km
07:05
1,450m
1,450m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
38
riders
50.4km
04:05
1,120m
1,110m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
2
riders
78.4km
05:31
1,440m
1,440m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
riders
60.4km
04:38
1,280m
1,280m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
56
riders
90.9km
06:14
1,660m
1,660m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cwm R MTB trail is completely blocked at top end due to hundreds of wind fallen trees this winter. Please consider before as you can not navigate loop.
1
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It was a truly stunning spot to take in the scenery from this elevated panoramic viewpoint. Highly recommended.
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A short climb up from the road brings you to the Dam and carpark, there is no access over the Dam itself. But you do get a good view over the spillway and valley below.
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Devil’s Staircase is a climb for mountain bike type gears and an advantage for those that can ride out of the saddle .My attempts have failed miserably,best of luck.
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THE TALE OF THE WELSH “ROBIN HOOD” Known as Twm Siôn Cati Twm Siôn Cati is a historically known figure in Welsh folklore. A tale recounted by Meyrick recalls how Twm was asked by a poor man to steal a pitcher for him. They went together to a merchant where Twm started belittling the man's wares. Having told his friend secretly to take the pitcher of his choice, Twm distracted the merchant by telling him there was a hole in one of the pitchers, which the man denied. Twm desired him to put his hand in the pitcher to test it and the man still denied there was a hole. Twm then asked him how, if there was no hole, could he have put his hand inside? By this time his friend had disappeared with his pitcher, undetected. A tale from Prichard's book involves an occasion when Twm is staying in an inn overnight and realises other people are planning to rob him the following day after he sets off. He has a large sum of money with him. The following morning he behaves as though his money is in the pack-saddle of his horse. When the highwayman catches up, Twm drops the saddle in the middle of a pool. The highwayman wades into the pool to fetch it, Twm takes the opportunity to make off with the highwayman's horse. A complication arises because the horse responds to the voice of the highwayman crying "Stop!" Luckily Twm, in terror, happens to shout a word which makes the horse gallop on again, and he is conveyed to safety. Another tale recounts how Twm waylaid a rich squire, who was accompanied by his daughter, Twm was so smitten with her that he returned her jewellery to her and attempted to woo her, against her father's opposition and, initially, her own. One full moon shortly after the robbery, he crept to her window, roused her from sleep, caught her hand at the window and kissed it, refusing to let her go until she promised to marry him. She wouldn't promise so Twm drew his dagger, drew blood on her wrist and threatened to sever her hand unless she assented to marriage forthwith. She agreed to marry him and she kept her hand. Their marriage followed soon after, despite her father's views and the directness of Twm's courtship methods. The girl was supposedly the widow of the sheriff of Carmarthen. Through this marriage Twm is supposed to have gained respectability, eventually becoming a justice of the peace, sitting in judgement on others, a position he held until his death aged 79.
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A lot of climbing to get over the top but the views are second to none and a good forestry fireroad. On a clear day you can see right across the Brecon Beacons.
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An incredible stretch of road. Very isolated. Watch out for Land Rover gangs racing up to the Florida Strata road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Cilycwm?
There are over 10 gravel biking routes available around Cilycwm on komoot. The area is known for its challenging terrain, with the majority of routes rated as difficult.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Cilycwm?
Gravel biking in Cilycwm is primarily suited for experienced riders. Most routes feature significant elevation gain and challenging ascents through forest tracks and remote Welsh countryside. Out of 12 routes, 11 are rated as difficult.
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel bike trails in Cilycwm?
While Cilycwm is largely characterized by challenging routes, there is at least one moderate option available. However, the region is generally geared towards more experienced gravel bikers looking for demanding climbs and varied terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Cilycwm's gravel routes?
You can expect a mix of rolling hills, dense forests, and river valleys. Routes often follow forest tracks and quiet country lanes, with sections around reservoirs and through remote Welsh countryside. Challenging ascents are a common feature.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Cilycwm?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in Cilycwm are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop from Llandovery and the View of Llyn Brianne – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Llandovery are popular circular options.
What are some notable viewpoints or attractions along the gravel trails?
Many routes offer stunning views of the Llyn Brianne reservoir. You can also pass by the historic Llandovery Castle Ruins or experience the famous Devil's Staircase Climb (Abergwesyn). The Llyn Brianne Gravel Road itself is a highlight for many riders.
Are there any hidden gems or less-traveled routes in the Cilycwm area?
While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered by local exploration, routes like The Towy Bridge Inn – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Cilycwm offer a direct start from the village and take you deep into the remote Welsh countryside, providing a sense of discovery away from the more frequently mentioned starting points.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Cilycwm?
The gravel biking routes in Cilycwm are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. Riders often praise the challenging nature of the climbs, the scenic reservoir views, and the remote, wild feel of the Welsh countryside.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Cilycwm?
The region's terrain, with its forest tracks and remote sections, can be enjoyed across multiple seasons. However, for the most comfortable riding conditions and to avoid potential winter challenges like ice or heavy mud on unpaved sections, late spring to early autumn generally offers the best experience.
Are there any routes that pass by the Llyn Brianne reservoir?
Yes, the Llyn Brianne reservoir is a central feature of many gravel routes in the area. Popular options include the Llyn Brianne & The Devil's Staircase loop from Llandovery and the View of Llyn Brianne – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Llandovery, both offering extensive views of the reservoir.
Can I find routes that start directly from Cilycwm village?
Yes, some routes, such as The Towy Bridge Inn – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Cilycwm, are designed to start directly from Cilycwm, allowing for convenient access to the trails from the village.
Are there any nature reserves accessible by gravel bike in the area?
Yes, the RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas Nature Reserve is located near Cilycwm and can be incorporated into longer rides, offering opportunities to explore diverse natural habitats.
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