Cycling & biking
Ride the Valleys
World-class trails, epic climbs, and hidden tunnels — the Valleys has it all.
Why the Valleys for Cycling?
Chase uplift laps, spin along old railways, or link valleys to the Brecon Beacons — cycling here is as varied as the landscape.
World-class MTB parks
Ride BikePark Wales, Afan, and Cwmcarn for graded trails, pro coaching, and legendary uplift runs.
Scenic long-distance routes
Follow the Taff Trail, Celtic Trail, and canal towpaths for riverside miles and industrial heritage views.
Family-friendly cycling
Traffic-free loops, visitor centres, and cafés make it easy to bring beginners and young riders along.
Easy access to the Beacons
Base in the Valleys for quick links to Brecon Beacons road climbs, forest parks, and gravel networks.
Signature Rides
Start with these headline riding spots across the Valleys.
BikePark Wales
The UK’s biggest purpose-built bike park with over 40 graded trails and a rapid uplift.
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Afan Forest Park
Flowy singletrack, skills areas, and scenic viewpoints deep in Afan Valley.
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Taff Trail
90km of riverside path linking the Valleys to Cardiff Bay with tunnels, viaducts, and cafés.
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Cwmcarn Forest
Technical descents, forest drives, and bike-friendly facilities near Caerphilly.
Plan this rideTypes of Cycling
Dial in your ride — from gravity runs and family spins to road climbs that test the legs.
Mountain Biking (Beicio Mynydd)
BikePark Wales, Afan, and Cwmcarn serve up trail centres, natural descents, and uplift days.
Leisure & Family Rides (Teithiau Hamdden a Theuluol)
Cruise converted railways, canal paths, and tunnels with plenty of cafés and play stops.
Road Cycling (Beicio Ffordd)
Tackle valley climbs, link scenic reservoirs, and roll into the Brecon Beacons in one ride.
Practical gateway
Lock in the essentials before you roll out.
Hire & Repair
Local bike shops, rentals, and mobile mechanics ready for trailside fixes.
See bike servicesPlan your ride
Getting here — and getting around — is easy with trains, trailheads, and community ride groups on hand.
- Take bike-friendly trains to Merthyr Tydfil, Aberdare, and Pontypridd for direct links to signature trails.
- Use Valleys car parks at Gethin Woodland Centre, Afan Visitor Centre, and Cwmcarn for secure trailhead access.
- Download route maps and GPX files from local clubs like Taff Trail Riders and South Wales MTB Community.
Coming Soon — Cycling guides with maps, GPX downloads, and itineraries.
Local Voices
“BikePark Wales is my go-to for adrenaline, but the Taff Trail is where I take the family.”
Hear from guides, mechanics, and community riders shaping the Valleys cycling scene.
Seasonal hooks
Year-round riding with a different flavour each season.
Spring (Dryer trails return)
Prime dirt and blooming valley slopes make it perfect for getting back on the bike.
Summer (Epic long days)
Chase sunsets on the ridges and stack big mileage before evening beers in trailhead pubs.
Autumn (Forest colours)
Ride through fiery woodland, crunchy leaves, and misty morning viewpoints.
Winter (Crisp climbs)
Cool, clear days are made for road climbs and gravel spins with big views.
Start your ride in the Valleys.
Base yourself here for MTB weekends, relaxed spins, and routes into the Brecon Beacons.