Adventure Routes
As well as the talks, Friday and Saturday are also our local riding days should you choose to venture on your bike. A series of DIY routes will be made available on site for anyone who wishes to self explore this beautiful region whilst adventuring at the Gathering. Here are 4 examples.Take a break in mid Wales and use the festival as your camping and "go-to" location - use it however you wish.
Route #1 - Adventure across the Abergwesyn Pass
There are few rides that compare in magnificance to this extraordinary route. I rate this as one of the great short routes in the world. Nature displays itself superbly as you cross the unbelievable wilderness of Nant y Moch. Marvel at the isolation so close to our busy country and that's just the start. Have a cafe break at one of the famous Devils Bridge cafés, watch the Rheidol narrow guage train come to halt in steam, and then start the Abergwesyn Pass. I'll tell you more when I see you!
Route #2 - Adventure across the Bwlch y Groes mountain Pass
Bwlch y Groes (Pass of the Cross) is a mountain pass at an elevation of 545m (1,788ft) above sea level, located in the county of Gwynedd, in Wales. The length and the gradient of the climb make the highest pass in Wales stand out as one of Britain’s toughest and you have a chance to ride up it. The pass, also known as Hellfire Pass, is located within the Aran Mountains on the edge of Snowdonia. The surface of the road is asphalted but extremely narrow. It’s one of the steepest, toughest and most spectacular climbs in the country. It’s a road of outstanding beauty – rough, weathered and steep. It’s one of the truly definitive climbs. It was used between and after the wars by the Austin Motor Company and the Standard Triumph Motor Company to test prototype cars and their performance during hillclimbing. It’s one of the highest mountain roads of the country and leads to Lake Vrynwy, to Hotel Vrynwy for a tea stop and to Bala and beyond until you decide you want to return to the site. More details on site next August!
Route #3 - Short Ride over the narrow mountain road Machynlleth to llanidloes
There is no end of routes around mid Wales which are almost without compare. Try the "Narrow Mountain Road" from the festival site to Machynlleth's sister town Llanidloes. The route is incredibly beautiful but don't take it from me, do it yourself! The Oak Cafe will service your barista needs, my mate James will serve you food at The Mount Pub - take your pick. More details on site.
Route #4 - Coast of Britain ride to Newquay
Whether you go north via Aberdyfi or south past Aberystwyth to the hugely picturesque seaside village of Aberaeron (coffee in the Harbour Hotel?) and onto Newquay, you simply can't go wrong. Wind your back inland along the back roads for a welcoming cold drink on site. Full details of all the rides to be made available on site.
