The best cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast
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Best touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by 186 miles (299 km) of varied coastline, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and wooded estuaries. Inland, the region features rolling hills such as the Preseli Hills and the Gwaun Valley, offering varied elevation profiles. This unique coastal national park provides a mix of terrain, from challenging climbs to more gentle paths, suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast
- The most popular touring cycling route is Solva and Croes-goch loop from St Davids, a 21.9 miles (35.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 12 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of the coastal villages and countryside.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is St. David's Head beaches to Blue Lagoon loop, a moderate 22.2 miles (35.7 km) path. It features coastal scenery, including beaches and the Blue Lagoon.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Newgale and Broad Haven loop from St Davids, a 40.2 miles (64.7 km) trail leading through coastal areas and villages, often completed in about 4 hours 9 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Pembrokeshire Coast is defined by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and inland hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate coastal paths to more difficult routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Pembrokeshire Coast are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 200 reviews. More than 3000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Pembrokeshire Coast's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.7
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35.3km
02:12
330m
330m
Embark on a touring bicycle adventure through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park with the Solva and Croes-goch loop from St Davids. This moderate route spans 21.9 miles (35.3 km) and includes 1075 feet (328 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete. You will cycle along rugged coastal stretches, offering views of dramatic cliffs and sheltered coves, particularly as you approach the picturesque Solva Harbour. The trail then guides you inland, revealing tranquil landscapes and a different side of the region's natural beauty. Expect a varied terrain that keeps your ride engaging from start to finish.
When planning your ride, be aware that approximately 39% of the route's surfaces are undefined, meaning you may encounter unpaved sections. These segments can be challenging to ride and might require you to dismount and push your bike at times. The trail transitions from the main A487 road to quieter back lanes, so be prepared for varying traffic conditions. Ensure your touring bicycle is suitable for mixed surfaces to fully enjoy the experience.
This loop offers a unique blend of natural and historical interest. Beyond the stunning coastal vistas, you will pass a disused Second World War airfield, which has now been repurposed as a nature reserve. This provides a fascinating contrast to the ancient landscapes and offers a moment to reflect on the area's past. The route highlights the diverse character of the Pembrokeshire Coast, from its dramatic shoreline to its peaceful inland expanses.
4.4
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25
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35.7km
02:14
360m
360m
Embark on the St. David's Head beaches to Blue Lagoon loop, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Over 22.2 miles (35.7 km), you will experience spectacular coastal views, rugged cliffs, and golden sandy stretches like Whitesands Beach. The route also includes a total elevation gain of 1196 feet (365 metres), offering a good workout as you cycle past picturesque harbors and inland farmland dotted with rocky outcrops. You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 13 minutes, immersing yourself in the unique Welsh scenery.
When planning your ride, consider starting from Abereiddy Beach, where convenient parking is available. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the striking Blue Lagoon and its surroundings. The trail is mostly paved, with approximately 24.0 km of asphalt and 11.3 km of other paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth ride for much of the way. However, be prepared for some short segments that might be unpaved or challenging, where you may need to walk your bike for a brief period.
This touring cycling adventure offers a chance to discover the dramatic beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline, including the unique Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy. This flooded slate quarry is known for its deep, greenish-blue waters, providing a memorable visual highlight. As you cycle, you will pass through charming harbors such as Porth Clais and Porthgain, each adding to the rich tapestry of the region's natural and historical appeal. The varied terrain and coastal vistas make this loop a rewarding experience for any cyclist.
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5.0
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14
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64.7km
04:10
750m
760m
Embark on the Newgale and Broad Haven loop from St Davids, a challenging touring cycling route spanning 40.2 miles (64.7 km). This difficult ride demands good fitness, taking approximately 4 hours and 9 minutes to complete, and features a significant elevation gain of 2472 feet (753 metres). As you cycle, you will experience the dramatic coastal scenery of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with views stretching across St Bride's Bay and past expansive beaches like Newgale Beach.
Planning your visit for this route requires preparation for a demanding physical effort. The trail is classified as a hard bike ride due to its substantial elevation changes and steep ascents and descents. While the path is mostly paved, be aware that some segments might be so challenging you could need to push your bike. Ensure you have very good fitness to fully enjoy the Pembrokeshire Coast cycling experience.
This touring cycling adventure offers more than just physical challenge; it also provides a rich cultural experience. Along the route, you will encounter historical landmarks such as the iconic St David's Cathedral and the ancient ruins of Bishop's Palace. These sites add a unique historical and cultural dimension to your journey through this distinctive national park, complementing the natural beauty of the coastline.
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Embark on the Littlehaven and St Ishmaels loop from Broadhaven, a moderate touring cycling route through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This 17.6-mile (28.3 km) journey, which you can complete in about 1 hour and 52 minutes, offers diverse and picturesque landscapes. You will gain around 1257 feet (383 metres) in elevation, with some steep streets as you approach Little Haven from Broadhaven. The route features mostly paved surfaces, allowing you to enjoy stunning coastal views and cycle through charming villages. Look forward to seeing the quaint village of Little Haven and enjoying views over Musselwick Bay, a beautiful beach revealed at low tide.
This moderate touring bicycle route is generally suitable for all skill levels, though it does require good fitness due to its length and elevation gain. The majority of the loop is on paved surfaces, including asphalt and paved roads, with only a small unpaved section of about 852 meters. While the approach to Little Haven from Broadhaven includes steep streets, the overall ride is manageable. You will find amenities like pubs in Little Haven, making it a great spot for a break.
The Littlehaven and St Ishmaels loop stands out for its blend of accessible cycling within a stunning natural environment. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Pembrokeshire coastline and visit charming villages like Little Haven. The route is largely paved and achievable for many touring cyclists, offering a rewarding experience in The Havens region, known for its coastal paths, scenic beaches, and rolling countryside.
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Embark on the Tavernspite and Amroth loop from Saundersfoot, a challenging touring bicycle route through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This difficult 20.6-mile (33.2 km) journey features a significant 1605 feet (489 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You will cycle along diverse terrain, including coastal paths with views across Saundersfoot Bay towards Monkstone Point, tranquil wooded valleys, and sections of old railway lines. Expect a mix of paved surfaces and some unpaved segments, with steeper gradients when leaving coastal towns like Amroth and Saundersfoot.
Planning your ride requires good fitness, as some hills may challenge even experienced cyclists, potentially requiring you to dismount and push your bike. The route is well-integrated into the National Cycle Network Route 4 and the Celtic Trail, offering clear navigation. While specific trailhead access and parking details are not provided, Saundersfoot and Amroth are coastal villages with typical visitor amenities. Consider starting early to enjoy the varied landscapes and avoid busier times, especially in popular coastal areas.
This loop offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical interest within the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. You will traverse old railway lines, including sections with tunnels, which provide unique, level riding experiences. The trail also passes by historical remnants, such as old ironworks buildings near Stepaside, reputed to be Wales's first coal and iron-making plant. Look out for exposed geology, including coal measures at low tide, between Amroth and Saundersfoot, and enjoy views towards Caldey Island from wooded sections around Giltar Point.
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Popular around Pembrokeshire Coast
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Tips from the Community
One of our favourite spots when we visited the area. A lovely spot to stop off and explore
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Great: there’s also a refill station for empty water bottles!
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Beautiful old pub! Stopped here after a hike & it was fascinating inside, plenty of locals, of course a lot of tourists (as I was!) But I'd love to come back here sometime & go there for the evening, it just looks like it gets a bit loose!
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Visit this interesting historical site & see how Porthgain used to be
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Wonderful cafe, fresh made food & drinks. Very quaint & well worth a stop there😎
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Porthgain, a small coastal village in Pembrokeshire, became an industrial hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The quarrying activities in Porthgain primarily focused on slate and later on roadstone. The harbour, constructed in 1851, was essential for exporting slate from nearby quarries. Initially, slate was transported to the harbour by horse-drawn tramways and later by steam-powered machinery. By the late 19th century, the industry expanded to include brickmaking using slate waste. The demand for roadstone led to the development of steam-powered crushers and large storage hoppers, which are still visible today. Despite its industrial success, the Great Depression in the inter-war period led to a decline in trade, and by 1931, the quarrying activities had ceased. Today, Porthgain is a conservation area, preserving its rich industrial heritage and attracting visitors to its historical sites and scenic beauty
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Pembrokeshire Coast offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 300 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including around 39 easy, 156 moderate, and 108 difficult trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park features incredibly diverse terrain. You'll find everything from rugged coastal cliffs and sweeping sandy beaches to tranquil wooded estuaries. Inland, the routes traverse rolling hills like the Preseli Hills and the Gwaun Valley, offering varied elevation profiles. This means you can choose between challenging climbs and more gentle, flatter paths.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Yes, Pembrokeshire Coast has options suitable for families. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed in the provided data, the region's diverse trails include easier sections. The Brunel Trail, for instance, is a mainly flat, traffic-free tarmacked path, ideal for a relaxed family ride through a nature reserve to Neyland Marina. The Pantmaenog Forest Circular Trail also offers family-friendly options, though some sections can be challenging.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Pembrokeshire Coast is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you might encounter stunning geological formations like the Green Bridge of Wales and the Stack Rocks. Other natural highlights include Barafundle Bay, Bosherston Lily Ponds, and the scenic Gwaun Valley. Historical sites such as Eight-Arch Bridge, Stackpole, and Carew Castle are also accessible.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Pembrokeshire Coast are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Solva and Croes-goch loop from St Davids, the St. David's Head beaches to Blue Lagoon loop, and the Littlehaven and St Ishmaels loop from Broadhaven.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling in Pembrokeshire Coast?
Touring cycling in Pembrokeshire Coast offers a range of difficulty levels. You'll find moderate coastal paths that are enjoyable for most cyclists, as well as more difficult routes with significant elevation gain, particularly in the northern parts and the Preseli Hills. Overall, the routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
Can I find routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The Pembrokeshire Coast is renowned for its breathtaking views. Many routes run parallel to the stunning coastline, offering superb vistas of the sea, beaches, and offshore islands. Specific viewpoints like Solva Harbour, Mowing Word Bay Cliffs, and Ceibwr Bay are popular stops for cyclists.
Are there any longer, more challenging touring routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Pembrokeshire Coast offers several demanding routes. The Newgale and Broad Haven loop from St Davids is a difficult 40.2-mile (64.7 km) trail with significant elevation. The Tavernspite and Amroth loop from Saundersfoot is another difficult option, covering over 33 km with substantial climbs.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Pembrokeshire Coast?
While Pembrokeshire Coast can be enjoyed year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and less rainfall. However, the autumn can also be beautiful, with vibrant foliage, though you should be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially more wind.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Pembrokeshire Coast?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied coastal landscapes, the mix of challenging and gentle paths, and the opportunity to discover charming villages and historical sites along the way. The unique blend of sea views and inland hills is a particular highlight.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife while cycling?
Pembrokeshire Coast is globally recognized for its rich habitats and diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot nesting seabirds like gannets and choughs, Atlantic grey seals, and if you're lucky, even porpoises or dolphins offshore. The varied landscapes, from coastal paths to wooded valleys, provide habitats for a wide array of species.
Can I combine cycling with other activities like visiting beaches?
Absolutely. Pembrokeshire is famous for its clean beaches, many holding Blue Flag and Green Coast designations. Routes often pass by or near picturesque spots like Barafundle Bay, Whitesands Bay, and Broad Haven, making it easy to incorporate a stop for relaxation or a dip in the sea into your cycling tour. Some beaches, like Abereiddy, are even suitable for watersports.
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