4.6
(21)
787
riders
22
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Cadfarch traverse a landscape characterized by significant elevation changes, with routes featuring climbs up to 768 meters. The region includes notable water bodies such as Glaslyn Lake and Nant y Moch Reservoir, suggesting routes with lakeside views and potentially forested sections. Terrain often involves challenging ascents and descents, suitable for experienced touring cyclists.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4
riders
26.8km
02:53
770m
770m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
20.8km
01:39
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
19.3km
01:59
310m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Head North to get to the top of the main road climb. I recommend this for gravel bikers who have climbed up from the southwest, and survived the descent and the dip at the dam. Beautiful views across Glaslyn toward Snowdonia. The southeast route is pretty much MTB only and I still had to push up a bit of it. A lot of the Trans Cambrian is like this, and would be better traversed without luggage or with very well tuned suspension and tyre pressure/choice.
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This is my recommendation if heading south from Mach on a mountain bike or gravel bike. It is a very long and windy gravel climb on an excellent surface that never becomes aggressively pitchy. Perfect for getting the elevation back to get to the Trans Cambrian. You have two options for getting here and I recommend the way through the valley rather than over the hills as we did, gets very steep to no end since it drops back down again before the climb proper. There is also a straight line DH trail crossing this path at the switchbacks so watch out.
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There's now a nice wooden footbridge, so no need to paddle unless you want to :)
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A high mountain lake surrounded by gravel roads and bridleways. Visited by several classic bike routes including the Trans-Cambrian way.
1
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Fantastic little natural pool to cool down into the side of the bridge
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There are 23 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Cadfarch featured on komoot. These routes offer a peaceful cycling experience away from busy roads, ranging from quiet country lanes to dedicated cycle paths.
Most of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cadfarch are considered challenging. Out of the 23 routes, 19 are rated as difficult, and 4 are moderate. There are no easy routes listed, suggesting that cyclists should be prepared for some climbs and longer distances.
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Glaslyn Lake and Viewpoint – Glaslyn Lake loop from Coed Nant-goch offers a challenging 26.7 km ride, while the Bike loop from Pen-y-rhiw is a 20.7 km difficult loop.
The Cadfarch area offers a variety of natural and historical attractions. You might encounter impressive waterfalls like Hafren Cascades Boardwalk or Blaen Hafren Falls. There are also beautiful lakes such as Clywedog Dam and Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake), as well as viewpoints like Pumlumon Fawr summit. For a touch of local history, you could visit the Machynlleth Clock Tower.
Given that 19 out of 23 routes are rated as difficult and the remaining 4 as moderate, the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cadfarch are generally more suited for experienced cyclists or families with older, more capable children. There are no routes specifically categorized as 'easy' for beginners or very young children.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cadfarch are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peacefulness of the routes and the scenic beauty of the natural surroundings, especially the quiet country lanes and views of lakes and waterfalls.
Yes, several routes offer views of or pass by lakes and reservoirs. The Nant y Moch Reservoir – View of Nant y Moch loop from Glaslyn is a moderate 19.3 km route that specifically highlights a reservoir. Other lakes in the vicinity include Clywedog Dam and Llyn Barfog (Bearded Lake).
Absolutely! The Cadfarch area is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls. You can find routes that offer views of or pass near attractions like the Hafren Cascades Boardwalk and Blaen Hafren Falls, providing picturesque stops during your ride.
While specific public transport links directly to the start points of all routes are not detailed, the region around Cadfarch, particularly towns like Machynlleth (where the Machynlleth Clock Tower is located), typically has some public transport options. It is advisable to research local bus or train services to Machynlleth or other nearby settlements and plan your route accordingly, considering the distance to the nearest route start.
The best time to enjoy touring cycling in Cadfarch, especially on no-traffic routes, is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, with longer daylight hours and less chance of adverse conditions, making for a more pleasant and safer cycling experience. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
While the routes themselves are generally open to the public, whether they are 'dog-friendly' depends on specific local regulations, land ownership, and the nature of the terrain. If you plan to cycle with a dog, ensure it is well-behaved, kept on a lead where necessary, and that you adhere to the Countryside Code. Always check for any specific signage or restrictions along your chosen route.


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