Brecon, Mynydd Illtud Loop

We head out of Brecon using the gravelly, canal tow path, shortly joining quiet country lanes that meander up to the spectacular Mynydd Illtyd Common. There is a section of broad, grassy trails that we can use to cross the common and then there’s a sweeping downhill to return to Brecon.

Mynydd Illtyd Common is an area of common land which covers 256 hectares and includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest (Illtyd Pools S.S.S.I), Scheduled Ancient Monuments (S.A.M.) and a Brecknock Wildlife Trust Reserve.

The Common is located at 335m above sea level and plays an important role in the economies of the farms around the common. Generally this is through grazing sheep, although some ponies are grazed and bracken is cut for bedding in the autumn.

The Common is an important recreational facility, which is estimated to attract
25,000 visitors a year. The National Park Visitor Centre (The Mountain Centre)
attracts between 140,000 and 170,000 visitors a year.

https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/Mynydd-Illtyd-factsheet-compatible.pdf

A beautiful, undulating route, meandering up to the spectacular Mynydd Illtyd Common.

We start with a section of the canal tow path and continue on mainly quiet country lanes, with a few busier roads where unavoidable. Some of the lanes can be pot holed, gravely and muddy in places but with care we always find a good route around these sections.  A particularly steep hill is included on this ride, to test and build on your fitness.

Plenty of opportunity to stop on route to catch your breath, have a drink and enjoy the views. 

Please bring a well-maintained bicycle, wear a helmet, gloves and appropriate clothing for the weather.  Remember to carry a drink, a spare tube, puncture repair kit, lock, lights, pump and bring some money for refreshments.  

We laugh, we cycle and never leave anyone behind!