Mawddach Trail in Mid Wales from Dolgellau to Barmouth

At nine miles long (14.5 km) and flat, this is a great cycle trail for the whole family. Taking you from the mountains to the beach, the Mawddach Trail begins in historic Dolgellau and follows one of the UK’s many former railway trackbeds. As you leave the town, you can catch a few glimpses of the river as the cycle path takes you over boggy fields in the valley floor. Before you know it, the river opens up and you’re pedalling with woodlands on one side, water on the other, and rolling hills to the north.

This trail follows the River Mawddach along its south bank before using the incredible Barmouth foot, cycle and rail bridge to cross the estuary at Barmouth. You can do as little or as much of the trail as you like, but its spectacular finish at the sea is a breathtaking experience.

As a linear route, you return the same way, turning the out-and-back route into an 18-mile (29 km) day. Barmouth has plenty of places to eat and rest though, so you can take your time before heading back to Dolgellau.