4.7
(165)
2,365
riders
61
rides
Mountain biking around Llwydcoed offers a diverse landscape characterized by former industrial paths, dense forests, and scenic reservoir views. The region, situated in the South Wales Valleys, features a network of cycleways and natural trails. These routes often follow river valleys and ascend into forested hills, providing varied terrain for mountain bikers. The area's topography includes moderate climbs and descents, making it suitable for a range of skill levels.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
3.5
(2)
12
riders
35.4km
03:06
640m
640m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.0
(2)
11
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
3.5
(2)
15
riders
29.1km
02:31
470m
470m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
67.1km
06:22
1,480m
1,480m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
6
riders
40.6km
02:30
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Stunning views and well worth the climb to the top
0
0
cabin gito top cake and coffee open Wednesday and sunday
1
0
Name had to be hypened due to AI app in komoot changing the name https://www.sustrans.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/trevithick-trail-merthyr-tydfil-to-abercynon/
0
0
Absolutely loved the Taff Trail and it's contrasting scenery, starting in the mountains and Reservoirs of the Brecon Beacons through the working towns of the valleys and into the urban streets of Cardiff City. Fantastic contrast of landscapes industrial past and present. This trail is a must visit if you are in the area.
0
0
While on the Taff Trail the viaduct suddenly looms out of the trees, another fantastic example of the amazing construction skills of our industrial past, take a moment to stop and have a proper look.
0
0
The small road runs from Penderyn in the west over the hill and down to Llwyn-onn Reservoir in the east. It's a nice ride avoiding the busier A4059 to the north.
0
0
The Penderyn whisky distillery was launched in 2004. They produce several different single malts and other spirits in three sites in south Wales. You can visit this distillery and take a tour but it's best to book beforehand as numbers on each tour are limited.
0
0
There are over 60 mountain bike trails around Llwydcoed, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. This includes 15 easy routes, 44 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes.
Yes, Llwydcoed offers 15 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes often utilize established cycleway sections and former industrial paths, providing a gentle introduction to the area's terrain.
The terrain around Llwydcoed is diverse, featuring former industrial paths, dense forests, and scenic reservoir views. You'll find a network of cycleways and natural trails, often following river valleys and ascending into forested hills. The topography includes moderate climbs and descents, catering to various experience levels.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Llwydcoed has 3 difficult mountain bike routes. One notable difficult route is the View of Llyn Fach – Lluest-Wen Reservoir loop from Aberdare, which covers 67.1 km with significant elevation changes.
Yes, many mountain bike routes in Llwydcoed are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Aberdare to Hirwaun Cycleway – View of Llyn Fach loop from Aberdare and the View of St. Gwynno Forest loop from Aberdare.
Mountain bike trails near Llwydcoed vary in length. Moderate routes like the Aberdare to Hirwaun Cycleway – Cwm Cadlan Nature Reserve loop from Aberdare are around 32.7 km, while more challenging routes can extend up to 67.1 km, such as the View of Llyn Fach – Lluest-Wen Reservoir loop from Aberdare.
The mountain bike trails in Llwydcoed are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 160 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, the combination of cycle paths and natural surroundings, and the well-maintained routes that cater to various skill levels.
Yes, some routes, like the Aberdare to Hirwaun Cycleway – Cwm Cadlan Nature Reserve loop from Aberdare, explore natural areas such as the Cwm Cadlan Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to experience the local flora and fauna.
The region boasts several natural attractions. You can find impressive waterfalls like Sgwd Yr Eira, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall. There are also various viewpoints and summits such as Mynydd Aberdar Summit and Moel Penderyn Trig Point.
While the Brecon Beacons offer vast, rugged mountain terrain, Llwydcoed provides a distinct experience characterized by a mix of former industrial paths, dense forests, and reservoir views within the South Wales Valleys. Llwydcoed's network includes more established cycleways alongside natural trails, often featuring moderate climbs and descents, making it accessible for a wider range of skill levels compared to some of the more demanding routes found in the higher Brecon Beacons.
Yes, the area's industrial heritage is reflected in some trails. For example, the Taff Trail Tramroad Section – Quaker's Yard Viaduct loop from Aberdare incorporates parts of historical tramroads, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.