4.5
(15)
890
riders
48
rides
Road cycling routes around Tywi Forest traverse a landscape characterized by extensive conifer plantations and elevated open vistas. The region features hills typically ranging from 1,300 to 1,500 feet (400-450 meters), with some peaks exceeding 1,600 feet (500 meters). Prominent natural features include the Llyn Brianne reservoir and the River Tywi, which winds through a valley of wooded hills and farmland. The terrain offers a mix of paved surfaces and challenging climbs suitable for road cyclists.
Last updated: May 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
22
riders
68.9km
04:16
1,320m
1,320m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
10
riders
44.6km
03:11
750m
750m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Sign up for free
9
riders
36.3km
02:30
880m
880m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
3.82km
00:20
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
112
riders
115km
06:27
1,920m
1,920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Confronting the Devil's Staircase northbound from near Llyn Brianne reservoir is tackling one of Wales's most infamous climbs, famed for its savage steepness and remote beauty. Prepare for an immediate, brutal ascent as the narrow single-track road rears up, averaging a punishing 10-13% but hitting steep ramps well over 20%, reportedly reaching 25-30%. Feel the wild exposure of the Cambrian Mountains, with stunningly remote views as your reward for conquering this truly devilish challenge.
1
0
It was a truly stunning spot to take in the scenery from this elevated panoramic viewpoint. Highly recommended.
0
0
It's a truly stunning ride valley mountain road and not to be missed if you are in the area.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
2
0
Tywi Forest offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 45 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult rides.
The terrain in Tywi Forest is diverse, featuring extensive conifer plantations, elevated open vistas, and hills typically ranging from 400-450 meters, with some peaks exceeding 500 meters. You'll find a mix of mostly paved surfaces, but some routes may include unpaved sections or wide gravel tracks, especially around areas like the Claerwen Reservoir, offering varied challenges and scenic views.
Yes, Tywi Forest has several road cycling routes suitable for beginners. There are 8 easy routes available, such as the short Roadbike loop from Cefn Coch, which is just under 4 km with moderate elevation gain, perfect for a gentle introduction to the area's cycling.
Road cycling routes in Tywi Forest often feature stunning natural attractions. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Llyn Brianne reservoir, and the scenic River Tywi winding through wooded hills. For a significant challenge and a notable landmark, the formidable Devil's Staircase Climb in Abergwesyn is a legendary ascent popular with cyclists.
Absolutely. Tywi Forest is known for its challenging ascents. The region includes routes with significant elevation gain, such as The Towy Bridge Inn – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Cefn Fannog, which covers 68.9 km with over 1300 meters of climbing. The legendary Devil's Staircase Climb in Abergwesyn is also a must-do for those seeking a formidable test.
Many of the road cycling routes in Tywi Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include The Towy Bridge Inn – Llyn Brianne Dam loop from Cefn Fannog and the Abergwesyn Pass – Abergwesyn Valley loop from Nant yr Hwch, providing convenient and scenic circular journeys.
For routes around Llyn Brianne Reservoir, car parks like Fannog and Carreg Clochdy offer convenient spots to park your vehicle and begin your ride. These locations are also ideal for enjoying the views and having a picnic.
The road cycling routes in Tywi Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, the dramatic scenery around Llyn Brianne, and the quiet lanes that make for an engaging and rewarding riding experience.
Yes, the broader Tywi Valley is well-regarded for cycle touring and offers excellent long-distance potential. Its numerous quiet lanes and historic sites enhance the riding experience. For more inspiration on long-distance rides in Wales, you can explore resources like Visit Wales.
Tywi Forest features 28 moderate road cycling routes. A popular choice is the Abergwesyn Pass – Abergwesyn Valley loop from Nant yr Hwch, a 44.6 km path offering scenic views through the Abergwesyn Valley. Another great option is the Bwlch Easgair Gelli Climb – Craig-y-Fintan loop from Nant-ystalwyn, a 36.3 km trail with notable climbs.
Absolutely. Tywi Forest offers opportunities to combine road cycling with other outdoor pursuits. You can explore short, waymarked walking trails through ancient woodlands, visit an historic well, or discover the remains of old farmhouses along the trails. The area around Llyn Brianne Reservoir is also perfect for photography and picnics.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.