The best cycling routes around Banwy
4.9
(46)
657
riders
28
rides
Touring cycling around Banwy offers routes through a scenic river valley characterized by the meandering River Banwy, moderate hills, and wooded areas. The region features a mix of quiet country lanes and varied terrain, providing diverse cycling opportunities. It is situated within Powys, a county known for its extensive cycling networks and picturesque landscapes, including the nearby Lake Vyrnwy.
Best touring cycling routes around Banwy
- The most popular touring cycling route is Around Llyn Llanwddyn, a moderate 11.3 miles…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.6
(18)
215
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…
4.9
(16)
222
riders
18.2km
01:08
200m
200m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride around Llyn Llanwddyn, also known as the Lake Vyrnwy circuit, a popular route in Powys, Wales. This 11.3 miles (18.2 km) trail takes…
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5.0
(1)
4
riders
33.4km
02:31
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
36
riders
21.5km
01:41
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
50.0km
03:29
840m
840m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Lake Vyrnwys straining tower! Lovely place and gives it that fairy tale vibe. One of my special places is Vyrnwy.
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Gorgeous area. Be aware the road/trail on the south side (including access to/from Llanymawddwy) are currently closed due to damage from storm Darragh. See https://www.hdcymru.co.uk/our-visitor-sites/lake-vyrnwy/storm-darragh/ for more details.
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There is a little cafe above the main car park for a coffee and cake after the "gift shop" labelled walks. As usual, Komoot makes the walk easier than using signposts - remember to download to the phone app. Kayaking/canoeing around the lake is only possible for about half of it due to a protected bird sanctuary.
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Bala is a town and community in Gwynedd, Wales. Formerly an urban district, Bala lies in the historic county of Merionethshire at the north end of Bala Lake. it has a wonderful village style feeling, and everyone speaks Welsh, which is truly amazing to hear. They have some good shops and supermarkets. They have tiny little petrol stations on the curb, and they attendant comes out and serves you. Great roads in this area and some can be very steep in these parts, plenty of cyclists and motorcycles well worth a ride.
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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building.
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Fantastic place with some nice pubs in the area great views and some great climbs
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The Straining Tower at Lake Vyrnwy is an intake tower built to extract water from the lake. The tower stands on the north shore of Lake Vyrnwy, near the village of Llanwddyn, in Powys, Wales. The Lake Vyrnwy dam project was designed to provide a water supply to the city of Liverpool and work on the dam began in 1881. On its completion 11 years later, the lake was the largest reservoir in Europe and water was drawn from it into the straining tower and carried to Liverpool on a 110km-long aqueduct. The engineers for the project were Thomas Hawksley and George Frederick Deacon, although the straining tower was entirely Deacon's design. The tower is constructed in a Gothic Revival style, purportedly based on the tower of the castle at Chillon, Switzerland. It draws heavily on the contemporaneous work of William Burges, whose Cardiff Castle and Castell Coch are clear influences. The straining tower is a Grade I listed building
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Banwy?
Banwy offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find quiet country lanes, rolling hills, and some challenging climbs, particularly in the broader Powys region. The immediate Banwy Valley features moderate hills and a meandering river, providing picturesque views throughout your ride.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Banwy?
Yes, there are routes suitable for families. The area offers moderate loops that are less strenuous. For example, the Around Llyn Llanwddyn route is a moderate 11.3 miles (18.2 km) loop around Lake Vyrnwy, which is popular and generally well-suited for a family outing.
What are some of the most scenic routes for touring cyclists in Banwy?
Many routes in Banwy offer scenic views, especially those around Lake Vyrnwy. The Around Llyn Llanwddyn route provides a beautiful loop around the lake. For more challenging scenery, the Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake high pass loop offers significant climbs and views towards Eryri / Snowdonia National Park.
What notable landmarks or attractions can I see along touring cycling routes in Banwy?
The Banwy area is rich in natural and historical attractions. Along your rides, you might encounter the impressive Lake Vyrnwy Dam, known for its 'fairy tale vibe'. For those seeking a challenge, the Bwlch y Groes mountain pass offers stunning views. You can also find the Rhiwargor Waterfall near Lake Vyrnwy. Historically, the area is close to Mathrafal, the ancient seat of the kings of Powys.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Banwy area?
Yes, several touring cycling routes in Banwy are circular. A popular example is the Around Llyn Llanwddyn route, which forms a loop around Lake Vyrnwy. Another option is the River Vyrnwy loop from Abertridwr, which takes you through the scenic River Vyrnwy valley.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Banwy?
The Banwy Valley is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons offer milder weather and lush landscapes. While specific weather patterns can vary, avoiding the colder, potentially wetter winter months will generally provide a more enjoyable experience.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Banwy?
The touring cycling routes around Banwy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil river valleys, rolling hills, and quiet country lanes that define the area, as well as the diverse options for different ability levels.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Banwy and the surrounding region offer routes with significant climbs. The Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake high pass loop is a difficult 34.4 miles (55.4 km) path with substantial elevation gain. The nearby Bwlch y Groes pass is also a notable inclusion for demanding rides.
Can I access Banwy cycling routes using public transport?
While the Banwy Valley benefits from quiet roads, public transport options directly to trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services or consider driving to a starting point with parking, such as around Lake Vyrnwy or Llanfair Caereinion, and then beginning your cycle from there.
Are there places to eat or stay along the touring cycling routes in Banwy?
The Banwy Valley and its surrounding areas, including towns like Llanfair Caereinion and those near Lake Vyrnwy, offer various amenities. You can find cafes and pubs in local villages for refreshments. For accommodation, there are options ranging from guesthouses to hotels, particularly in the larger towns within Powys, catering to cyclists.
How many touring cycling routes are there in Banwy?
There are nearly 30 touring cycling routes available around Banwy, catering to various skill levels. These include moderate loops and more difficult paths with significant climbs.
What is the longest difficult touring cycling route in the area?
One of the longest and most difficult routes is the Llyn Efyrnwy / Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake high pass loop, which spans 34.4 miles (55.4 km) and features significant elevation changes, offering views towards Eryri / Snowdonia National Park.
Are dogs allowed on the cycling routes in Banwy?
While many outdoor areas in Wales are dog-friendly, specific rules can vary depending on the exact route or land ownership. When cycling, it's generally best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves. Always check local signage or specific route guidelines for any restrictions.
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