Heads of the Valleys Ride

Starting out from the public car park in Llanfoist, just a short ride from the centre of Abergavenny and National Railway, you will begin a 9 mile ascent on the former Merthyr, Tredegar and Abergavenny Railway towards Brynmawr. This is now the Sustains National Cycle Route 46, paved and a gentle climb averaging 2-3%. Crossing the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Path and through the first station, Govilon. Continuing up the side of the valley past Gilwern station, a double platform with stairs on one platform. The track deviates from the cycle route onto a narrow lane for about two miles through two switchbacks for a short steep section and then re-joining the railway which has now been made into a road. Over a viaduct at Clydach and the remains of the station. The route circumnavigates the two railway tunnels that are now bricked up and disused. Clydach quarry workings appear on the left with much evidence of derelict buildings. Continuing along the newly refurbished Sustrans route towards Brynmawr and over the new John Williams Bridge (in honour of local Nantyglo First World War Hero Sgt Major John Henry Williams awarded the Victoria Cross). The route then takes the Hafod Road, where you can observe the route you've just taken on the other side of the valley (Clydach Gorge). Dropping down a fairly steep descent into Gilwern we pick up the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal path and a quick stop at the Towpath Inn before returning to Llanfoist.
15 miles 1200ft Climbing. The ride is predominantly off road on a mixture of hard packed and asphalt surfaces. Gravel bikes, CX Bikes, MTBs suitable. Hybrids with a bit of traction should be fine. Electric bikes welcome. Road bikes are probably not ideal, the narrower tyres may not give adequate traction on gravel and could prove a safety issue.


Previous Reviews:

Name - Helen
Rating - 5 stars
I really enjoyed this guided ride, and Jeremy was a first class leader, very knowledgeable, professional and friendly. First of all my bike was checked out for safety and I found this useful and will follow through on the recommendations. Jeremy said he would normally brief on the route at the start but I was already familiar with it. We had dry and sunny conditions with a breeze; initially the ride was under the dappled light of trees until we climbed gradually up to Brynmawr (800feeet, I was told). After the steady climb, it was lovely to ride on the Old Hafod Road (very quiet) which is level and follows the escarpment; the views were stunning; then we descended to the canal at Llangattock which made for a gentle ride back along the canal path to the cycle path and then the return to Llanfoist. Jeremy cycled at my pace and I felt very safe and comfortable. We took a couple of breaks, including coffee in a pub. The route was full of variety, starting with the more challenging ride at the beginning. All in all, a great day out cycling. This cycle route is largely off road which is a bonus for me; the route also highlights the industrial history of the area which Jeremy referred to. I recommend this guided ride and definitely give it 5 stars with Jeremy as the leader!