Recreational Cycle Routes in Snowdonia – A Crisp Ride through Snowdonia360 this Autumn

Recreational Cycle Routes in Snowdonia – A Crisp Ride through Snowdonia360 this Autumn

Snowdonia360 is not only a driving route for tourists, but it’s also home to some amazing cycling routes and trails, scattered throughout the region and ranging in ability, length, environment, and landscape. A bike ride through this rich terrain is surely one of the greatest things cycle aficionados can do, as the seasons change, and we welcome the fall with an abundance of changing earth tones and colours.

Lonydd Glas Gwynedd is used to describe paths and routes used by walkers and cyclists in North Wales and takes in several routes. The off-road network has grown to become almost 50miles of traffic-free access to the countryside. These routes are for all to enjoy and can be very popular so it’s important that we behave responsibly and respect others who use the paths.

Let’s explore the routes and journeys as you plan your next adventure…

Lôn Las Ogwen

Begin this journey at Porth Penrhyn where the disused narrow-gauge railway sits next to the river Cegin running all the way along to the village of Glasinfryn. The route continues, stretching lazily over the viaduct at Glasinfryn to Tregarth, and past Penrhyn Quarry into the Ffrancon Valley.

A perfect pit stop can be found at Penrhyn Quarry, home to ZipWorld where you have the option to bolt on a high-octane zip wire adventure or simply enjoy a coffee and a sandwich at their lovely café. Those looking for an overnight stay should consider Ogwen Bank Caravan and Lodge Park, both in Bethesda whilst the wonderful Storiel, cafe, shop and art gallery sits on the Bangor end of this stunning route.

Lôn Las Menai

The Lôn Las Menai path runs between Caernarfon and the village of Y Felinheli following the former railway alongside the Menai Straits, with sweeping views across Anglesey. The route takes you past the brilliant National Water Sports Centre at Plas Menai where you could take part in a huge range of watersports or simply enjoy a bite to eat. For those ending the route at Caernarfon, the Black Boy Inn is the oldest pub in Wales serving some of the tastiest homemade foods!

Lôn Rhyd Ddu – Beddgelert

This idyllic cycling route linking Rhyd Ddu to Beddgelert takes you through the undiscovered valley of Dyffryn Nantlle. One of the region’s finest delicatessens sits at the start of the route, Llwy a Mwy, in Penygroes is ideal for a bite to eat or is a perfect place to stock up on a picnic before heading to Rhyd Ddu to begin your journey. Sygun Copper Mine in Beddgelert offers an ideal place for a break with a wonderful cafe, and shop with the daily underground tours to explore the mines below.

Lôn Eifion

Lôn Eifion takes in one of the most breathtaking views of the Llŷn Peninsula with Caernarfon Bay to the South West and Anglesey to the West and North, and the mountains of Snowdonia to the East. Lôn Eifion stretches between Caernarfon and the rural village of Bryncir via a smooth, tarmacked cycle-ready surface.

Inigo Jones Slate Works, near Groeslon, is based right next to the route with a lovely café and shop, with slate tours available. The route ends at Caernarfon where you can eat and stay at the Black Boy Inn, hop on the train at Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, or go for a coffee and play at the Fun Centre.

Mawddach Trail 

The Mawddach Trail follows the Mawddach estuary from Barmouth to Dolgellau, the path has been perfectly surfaced for cyclists. Jaw-dropping views can be enjoyed throughout, particularly of the estuary and the spectacular Barmouth bridge. The brilliant Corris Craft Centre sits south of Dolgellau where the route ends with lots of independent shops and cafe. For those looking for a place to stay, Hendre Mynach campsite is located on the outskirts of Barmouth.

Enjoy your ride and your time spent in stunning Snowdonia. To get the most from your time for yourself and those around you, it’s good practice to follow the ‘Good Cycling Code’ and the Countryside Code. Have a great journey!

The Good Cycling Code

• Read the Highway Code; always follow it
• Act considerately, particularly on shared use paths
• Beware of pedestrians; ring your bell or politely call out to them
• Make sure your bike is roadworthy
• Take extra care at a road junction, on steep hills and in damp conditions
• Wear a helmet and bright reflective colours

Head to https://www.visitsnowdonia.info/gwynedd-recreational-routes for more information on cycling routes in Gwynedd. Alternatively, head to our social media @Snowdonia360 to discover more hidden gems in North West Wales.