Trans Cambrian Cyclosportive

The Cambrian Mountains form the spine of central Wales. With peaks of around 500m-600m, and hidden valleys holding reservoirs of clear water, it is a region of outstanding natural beauty. The winding roads that cross these mountains see a relatively small amount of traffic, making ideal cycling country. Forming the backbone of Wales, the Cambrian mountains are in places wild and desolate, in places green, leafy and tranquil, but always a great place to be on your bike. The Trans Cambrian Cyclo Sportive takes you on an 87 mile tour of the central part of the mountain range, starting on the western side in the scenic Elan Valley, climbing over to the Dyfi Estuary at Machynlleth, and running down the coast as far as Talybont. From there you rise back up to the tops of the hills at Nantymoch. On this 5 mile climb, if you care to look over your left shoulder, you will be rewarded with a fine view of Cardigan Bay. Having reached Nantymoch Reservoir, you will pass beneath Plynlimon, the source of both the River Wye and the River Severn. From there, your journey takes you through Devil's Bridge and Cwmystwyth, culminating with a tour of the reservoirs of the Elan Valley, to the Finish at the Elan Valley Visitor Centre. As an alternative to this arduous route, we have 2 shorter route options. The Devil's Return, at 46 miles, heads out over the 3½ mile ascent of Penrhiwen and Cwmystwyth to Devil's Bridge, and then returns viaThe Arch and the Elan Valley. The route is largely through long stretches of open hill country, the roads having neither fences nor hedges. If you want a taste of this magnificent area, tackling a big climb and riding through open hill country, but without doing big mileage, there is the Tour of the Elan Valley. Despite being just 18 miles long, it includes the climb of Penrhiwen, an altitude gain of nearly 300m, and a real challenge for any cyclist. All riders will receive a certificate recording their time, and riders of the Trans Cambrian will be graded as Gold, Silver or Bronze depending on their time, age, and gender. The minimum age for the Trans Cambrian and the Devil's Return is 16. The minimum age for the Tour of the Elan Valley is 12. All under 18's on all 3 courses must be accompanied by a responsible adult.