4.2
(242)
13,007
riders
343
rides
Road cycling routes around Old St Mellons offer varied terrain, from moderate elevation gains to more challenging ascents. The area features a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with country roads and dedicated cycle lanes providing paved surfaces for cyclists. The region's Triassic landscapes contribute to the diverse environment, with views extending towards the Severn Estuary.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
5.0
(1)
101
riders
35.6km
01:34
280m
280m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.6
(5)
103
riders
30.2km
01:17
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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43
riders
22.3km
01:02
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
34
riders
30.4km
01:32
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
27
riders
55.8km
02:29
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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This bridge gives great views of the marina, and forms part of the Cardiff Bay loop
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The Barrage connects Penarth to the Cardiff peninsula. It offers stunning views across the sea to one side, and the freshwater bay on the other. One of the highlights of the Cardiff Bay tour
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Great photo opportunity, but the area can be busy depending on the weather and it’s likely any progress on a bike would be very slow. Early mornings and evenings are good.
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Great place to meet up with family or friends before your planned adventure.
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Every day, this narrow crossing offers a new perspective on life. It's a unique place where you feel enveloped in blue. Love it!
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Cardiff Bay Barrage is a significant engineering project located in Cardiff, Wales. Completed in 1999, the barrage was built to create a freshwater lake in Cardiff Bay by damming the River Taff and the River Ely. This project transformed the bay area, which was previously a tidal estuary, into a more controlled water environment. Key Features and Purpose: Tidal Control: The barrage helps manage tidal flows, preventing flooding and allowing for the creation of a stable freshwater environment. Recreation and Tourism: The area around the barrage has been developed for recreational use, including walking and cycling paths, boating, and various leisure activities. It has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Environmental Impact: The construction of the barrage altered the local ecosystem. While it created new habitats in the freshwater lake, it also raised concerns about the impact on marine life in the estuary. Hydropower Generation: The barrage includes a small power station that harnesses tidal energy, contributing to renewable energy production. Economic Development: The project played a crucial role in the regeneration of Cardiff Bay, leading to significant investment and development in the area, including residential, commercial, and cultural projects. The Cardiff Bay Barrage is often noted for its engineering complexity and its role in transforming the landscape and economy of Cardiff.
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clear pathway around the water, popular routes for running, walking and cycling linked with the Cardiff bay trail (6miles)
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Good Coffee and Cake, but really loud (too loud) music. But always a welcome stop.
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Road cycling routes in and around Old St Mellons offer varied terrain. You'll find mostly paved surfaces, including country roads and dedicated cycle lanes. Elevation gains range from moderate rides of up to 500 ft, suitable for all skill levels, to more challenging excursions with over 1500 ft of elevation, requiring good to very good fitness. The area features a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views extending towards the Severn Estuary.
There are over 360 road cycling routes available around Old St Mellons. This includes a wide range of difficulties, with 115 easy routes, 190 moderate routes, and 55 challenging routes to choose from.
Yes, Old St Mellons offers several easy, mostly flat routes suitable for families. For example, the West Side of Cardiff Bay – Cardiff Bay Barrage loop from Pentwyn is an easy 18.3-mile (29.4 km) path offering flat terrain and views of Cardiff Bay. Another option is the Roath Park Lake loop from Llanrumney, a 13.7-mile (22.0 km) easy trail through urban and parkland areas.
The region boasts both natural beauty and historical significance. You can cycle past or near sites like Roath Park Lake and the Scott Memorial Lighthouse, or explore routes that offer views of Twmbarlwm Hill and its Iron Age hillfort in the distance. The Caerphilly Castle – Radyr Weir loop from Llanrumney also takes you past significant historical and natural points of interest.
The road cycling routes around Old St Mellons are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of urban and rural scenery, and the availability of both country roads and dedicated cycle lanes.
Yes, many of the routes around Old St Mellons are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the popular Y Maerun Pub & Dining – Ty Coch Campsite loop from Pentwyn, which is an easy 22.1-mile (35.5 km) ride, and the moderate Y Maerun Pub & Dining – Greenmoor Nurseries loop from Pentwyn.
While specific seasonal advice isn't detailed, the region's varied landscape suggests pleasant cycling conditions during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons generally offer more favorable weather for exploring the country roads and cycle lanes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Absolutely. Old St Mellons offers 115 easy road cycling routes. These routes typically feature mostly paved surfaces and moderate elevation gains, making them ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. The West Side of Cardiff Bay – Cardiff Bay Barrage loop from Pentwyn is a great example of an easy, flat option.
Yes, for more experienced cyclists, there are 55 difficult routes available. The area around Old St Mellons can offer challenging excursions with over 1500 ft of elevation gain, particularly when venturing towards the surrounding hills like those near Twmbarlwm, which contribute to scenic but demanding routes.
While specific cyclist-friendly cafes or pubs aren't detailed for every route, the presence of routes named after establishments like 'Y Maerun Pub & Dining' suggests opportunities for refreshment stops. Many routes traverse both urban and rural areas, increasing the likelihood of finding places to stop for a break.
The landscape around Old St Mellons is characterized by a blend of urban and rural environments. You'll encounter 'really nice country roads' and dedicated cycle lanes, offering diverse scenery. The region is part of the Cardiff area, known for its Triassic landscapes, providing a varied backdrop for your rides.


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