Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Hirnant Pass
Cycling
5.0
(23)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
October 13, 2023
Cycling
August 6, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hirnant Pass
4.6
(19)
205
riders
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle loop from Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake, traversing the high passes of Eryri / Snowdonia National Park. This difficult route spans 34.4 miles (55.4 km) and features a substantial elevation gain of 3059 feet (932 metres), requiring very good fitness and typically taking around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will cycle through dense woodlands, open moorland, and past the expansive reservoir of Lake Vyrnwy, experiencing a landscape of mountains, valleys, and tranquil countryside.
While largely on paved surfaces, be prepared for some unpaved sections where you might need to push your bike. The route includes demanding climbs into the surrounding hills, notably the Hirnant Pass and Bwlch y Groes, which is the highest road pass in Wales. Expect very steep roads and descents, especially near Lake Vyrnwy and Rhiwargor. This loop is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the weather is clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the panoramic views across the Welsh landscape.
This trail is notable for connecting two iconic Welsh lakes via a high mountain pass, offering a true sense of frontier wildness and raw natural beauty. Bwlch y Groes, reaching 1800 feet (546 metres), is not only a challenging climb but also historically significant as a pilgrim route. You will also pass the impressive dam and distinctive straining tower of Lake Vyrnwy, and experience the charming, Welsh-speaking town of Bala by Llyn Tegid, Wales's largest natural lake.
27
riders
Embark on a difficult touring bicycle adventure with the Bwlch y Safan to Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy loop from Bala. This 37.1-mile (59.7 km) route, taking about 4 hours and 5 minutes, challenges you with 3395 feet (1035 metres) of elevation gain. You will cycle through dense woodlands and expansive open moorland, enjoying panoramic views across Eryri / Snowdonia National Park. The terrain is mostly paved, but expect some unpaved sections where you might need to push your bike. You will pass the large reservoir of Lake Vyrnwy and the tranquil Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), Wales's largest natural lake, experiencing a blend of wild frontier and serene countryside.
This loop requires very good fitness due to its significant elevation changes and is best suited for experienced cyclists. The initial half of the ride includes a long ascent with mostly moderate gradients, though the return journey features several steep sections. Be prepared for the demanding climb over Bwlch y Groes, often called "Hellfire Pass." While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, planning your start from Bala will position you well for this challenging journey.
The Bwlch y Safan to Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy loop is notable for its exceptional, quiet single-track roads, particularly those leading up Hirnant and Bwlch y Groes, where traffic is minimal. Bwlch y Groes stands out as one of the highest paved roads in Wales, offering a truly memorable challenge. The route also provides the opportunity to cycle around Lake Vyrnwy, known for its beautiful setting and sculpture trail, and to experience the unspoilt tranquillity of the area around Bala Lake. This blend of diverse natural beauty and physical demands makes it a rewarding touring cycling route.
3
riders
84.6km
06:00
1,700m
1,700m
Cycle 52.6 miles (84.6 km) from Trawsfynydd to Lake Bala and Llyn Llanwddyn, gaining 5567 feet (1697 metres) in Snowdonia.
Details
Informations
Distance 9.64 km
Uphill 460 m
Downhill 190 m
Weather
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Tuesday 11 August
32°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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