Beginner Routes
These routes are designed for individuals just starting to cycle or families with small children interested in safe, traffic-free cycling. The paths are separated from roadways on smooth, paved surfaces, and generally follow secluded tracks through nature reserves or parks. Overall distances are quite short and range from 2 to 10 miles (round-trip). What are you waiting for? Go get on your bike and explore!
NEW!
Nature Series
Location(s): Pengam, Bargoed
Distance: 1.5 mi.
Travel Time: 1 - 2 hours
Distance: 1.5 mi.
Travel Time: 1 - 2 hours
This short ride follows NCN Route 468 through the quiet woodland park from Pengam to Bargoed.
UPDATED!
Wales Heritage Series
Location(s): Llanhilleth, Six Bells
Distance: 2.5 mi.
Travel Time: 2 - 3 hours
Distance: 2.5 mi.
Travel Time: 2 - 3 hours
This route follows NCN Route 465 which starts along quiet roads to Aberbeeg, but then moves onto a lovely wooded and traffic free section up to Six Bells.
NEW!
Nature Series
Location(s): Blackwood, Hollybush
Distance: 3.5 mi.
Travel Time: 1 - 2 hours
Distance: 3.5 mi.
Travel Time: 1 - 2 hours
This traffic-free route follows NCN Route 467 up Sirhowy Valley from Blackwood to Hollybush.
COMING SOON!
Nature Series
Location(s): name of place
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Currently in production. Expected publish date:
February 2024.
February 2024.
COMING SOON!
Nature Series
Location(s): name of place
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Currently in production. Expected publish date:
February 2024.
February 2024.
COMING SOON!
Explore Series
Parc Penalta & Parc Taf Bargoed
Location(s): name of place
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Distance: xx mi. / xx km
Travel Time: x - x hours
Currently in production. Expected publish date:
February 2024.
February 2024.
The National Cycle Network
At the core of most all of the routes described in this section is the National Cycle Network. This extensive UK-wide network consists of nearly 12,000 miles of signposted paths and routes for walking, cycling, and exploring. The shear number of routes is remarkable for such a small area and a testament to the efforts of it's charitable caretaker; Sustrans.
NCN Routes primarily focuses on traffic-free or low-traffic paths designed for families with children or beginner cyclists. Generally these routes follow repurposed rail lines, tow paths, and/or quiet lanes in order to limit contact with traffic; however, some routes may involve sections on roadways which may only be suitable for experienced cyclists.
Note to Readers: Examine the provided online maps closely to understand conditions prior to your ride. Each route listed includes a colour-coded map indicating specific terrain along with the distance(s). When considering difficulty; remember elevations +/- gains are equally important to distances. Printing the included .pdf maps and/or downloading the GPS file is highly recommeded.
Disclaimer of Liability. Bike Wales™ and everyone associated with this website/blog accept no responsibility for the conditions of the routes discussed. These are simply "suggested" routes of the National Cycle Network that the reader may choose to follow. Any action(s) taken from reading the content herein, is solely the responsibility of those involved.
