North Wales by bike

8 days / 7 nights
From mid-April till October
Start : Wednesdays and Sundays
Level : intermediate to rather sporty
Electric bikes available
Luggage transfer included

Highlights

Pedaling along the Llangollen Canal, with its old-world charm
The bewitching landscapes of the high plateaus, straight out of a movie
The small stone villages, the medieval cities, and the gigantic fortresses
The colorful seaside resorts lined with beautiful sandy beaches
An off-the-beaten-path destination just a few hours away from London
A Celtic identity still very much present, reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland

Highlights :

Pedaling along the Llangollen Canal, with its old-world charm
The enchanting landscapes of the high plateaus, straight out of a movie
The small stone villages, the medieval cities, and the massive fortresses
Colorful seaside resorts lined with beautiful sandy beaches
An off-the-beaten-path destination just a few hours away from London
A still very present Celtic identity, reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland

From 999 € / pers.

8 days / 7 nights
From mid-April till October
Start : Wednesdays & Sundays
Level : intermediate to rather sporty
Electric bikes available
Luggage transfer included

WALES…

3 million inhabitants, 10 million sheep… welcome to Wales!

If there were a region that remains largely unknown to the wider public, yet is both close and exotic, it would undoubtedly be this small piece of wild land fiercely attached to its Celtic roots: Wales.
As the smallest of the four nations making up the United Kingdom, this off-the-beaten-path destination is just a few hours by train from Paris or Brussels!

Wales, perhaps even more so than its neighbours Scotland and Ireland, is a land steeped in mysticism, where everything seems designed to make familiar reference points disappear and transport you into a thrilling, romantic imagination!

On land…

The wind-swept highlands invite contemplation with their vastness and raw beauty. Only low-lying vegetation thrives in these harsh landscapes. As you descend the slopes, the bleating of thousands of sheep gradually pulls you out of solitude. The brown hues of burnt moorland give way to the vivid green of pastures.

In the sky…

The skies mirror these vast sheep-covered lands, forming a mosaic of clouds, some darker than others (like the sheep!). Probably even more than in Brittany, you will experience all four seasons in a single day… and the accompanying rainbows!

Among the people…

As you approach the valley bottoms, the vegetation becomes increasingly lush, and impenetrable forests block the way. Nestled in these shadowy valleys, stone villages with charming names like Llanwrst, Penrhyndeudraeth, Pwllheli, and Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (yes, that’s really the name!) highlight Wales’ untamed character. While the more numerous English eventually established themselves with massive castles (Wales has the highest density of castles per km²!), the proud Welsh never lost their spirit. Welsh, the language from which Breton originates, remains the most widely spoken Celtic language in the world, and more than 700 years after English rule, many locals still speak it daily. That said, the Welsh are very welcoming, and you will have no trouble communicating in English.

By bike…

As for Wales itself, if you don’t mind the occasional shower or a few steep hills, cycling here is an absolute delight. The landscapes are wonderfully varied and strikingly beautiful. Stone villages and castles will transport you to another era. Wales also caters to lovers of the dolce vita: stunning white-sand beaches, sea swims, enchanting English gardens, and diverse cuisine await!

And while Wales may not yet have the fame of Scotland, it is actually less rainy, more affordable, less touristy, and closer than its northern neighbour. A friendly tip!

Enjoy your trip! Taith dda!

DAY-BY-DAY PROGRAMME

Day 1: Arrival in Chirk

By train or car, make your way to the tranquil town of Chirk, just past the Welsh border. Here begins your Welsh odyssey!
If you arrive early enough, take the opportunity to visit its charming castle, beautifully furnished!

💡 Approximately 3 hours by train from London, or 5 hours by car from Dover to reach Chirk.

Day 2: Chirk – Bala

58 km | +450 m | ⏱︎ 4h00

This first stage will dazzle you from the very first kilometres, following the picturesque Llangollen Canal up to the vertiginous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Arriving in the charming town of Llangollen, a short detour to Plas Newydd will amaze you with its unique interior design, imagined by two “romantic friends” living there in the 13th century.
Leaving the canal, you venture into the green sheep-filled countryside of inland Wales. Along the way, admire the ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey.

A few thousand sheep later, you reach Bala, a typical small town where you will spend the night.

Day 3: Bala – Dolgellau

47 km | +710 m | ⏱︎ 3h14

After following Llyn Tegid for around ten kilometres, you gradually reach the highlands with endless landscapes straight out of The Lord of the Rings.
A narrow single-track road winds delightfully through this desolate environment for about twenty kilometres.
On the far side of the plateau, you descend into the Mawddach valley, where vegetation is lush and almost jungle-like. Sheltered from the wind, flora thrives here!
By the end of the day, you reach the charming village of Dolgellau, its grey granite houses revealing the true soul of Wales.

Day 4: Dolgellau – Llanbedr

47 km | +610 m | ⏱︎ 3h23

The day starts gently along the beautiful Mawddach Trail, a former railway converted into a greenway. It follows the Mawddach estuary for around ten kilometres before opening onto the bay.
Just before the estuary, the route turns inland, climbing about 200 m to the Cregennan Lakes, two small alpine lakes in an idyllic setting. From there, the trail continues through hillside sheep pastures overlooking the sea. Sublime views.
You then descend to the coast, which you will follow – near or far – until reaching Llanbedr, today’s destination. Along the way, you pass through Fairbourne, considered the first UK village at risk from rising sea levels, and the seaside resort of Barmouth with its stunning white sandy beach.
In good weather, those who love relaxing or swimming can enjoy the afternoon here – a train allows you to make up time afterwards!

☕ Relaxed option (29 km | +210 m | ⏱︎ 1h51):

This easier route follows the Mawddach Trail straight to Barmouth, avoiding the steep detour to the Cregennan Lakes, giving your legs a break.

Day 5: Llanbedr – Caernarfon

59 km | +700 m | ⏱︎ 3h55

Although the route does not hug the coast directly, it climbs slightly for better views. Stunning panoramas accompany you all day. Midway, a short detour brings you to Portmeirion, a former fishing village transformed by an eccentric architect into a Mediterranean-style village reminiscent of Portofino, with pastel-coloured houses creating a haven of beauty.

The last section follows a former railway converted into a greenway, making the final 15 km an easy ride. You end the day in Caernarfon, a lovely medieval town dominated by its monumental UNESCO-listed castle.

🚲 Sporty option (61 km | +840 m | ⏱︎ 4h07):

This route requires strong legs: it detours via Harlech, home to one of the steepest climbs in the world (~40%)! The route climbs rather than descends (for safety and fun). After Harlech, it rejoins the main route across the plateau.

Day 6: Caernarfon – Bangor

41 km | +470 m | ⏱︎ 2h35

Leaving Caernarfon, you head inland towards Llanberis, the starting point for the train or trail leading to the summit of the iconic Snowdon. At 1,085 m, it’s the highest point in Wales. Most ascend by the rack railway, but the fit can walk (start early, as it takes ~3 hours!). Llanberis is also home to the National Slate Museum, showcasing the stone that made North Wales wealthy.

From Llanberis, head north to Anglesey Island, crossing the impressive Menai Suspension Bridge. Just beyond, a short walk leads to the small, mystical Church Island with its 15th-century church, old cemetery, and Celtic crosses. In fog, it even seems haunted.

Your route on the island ends at Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Europe’s longest place name. A photo at the station sign is a must before taking the train to Bangor, skipping a less interesting section (cyclists can ride it if preferred).

💡 If you stay an extra night in Caernarfon, you can take a bus round-trip to Llanberis. Frequency: 1 per hour | Duration: 25 min.

🚲 Via Beaumaris (46 km | +440 m | ⏱︎ 2h49)

If cloudy, Snowdon’s summit may be shrouded in mist, making the climb less rewarding. This Beaumaris route reaches Anglesey directly and offers a sea excursion to Puffin Island, home to many seabirds, including puffins! Beaumaris itself is a charming seaside village with colourful houses and a strong castle in the marshes.

Day 7: Bangor – Llandudno

49 km | +510 m | ⏱︎ 3h26

A short stage today to Llandudno. The route follows the coast closely. Along the way, visit the extravagant Penrhyn Castle, hike to the Aber Falls, or relax on pretty beaches. Further on, reach the superb medieval town of Conwy – ideal for a midday stop to explore its walls, historic centre, and imposing UNESCO-listed castle.

Cross the river estuary before arriving at Llandudno, a seaside resort with typical Victorian houses. Once very fashionable, it has retained its historic charm.

Don’t miss a grand finale by cycling around the Great Orme peninsula, along a stunning cliff-top road.

Day 8: Departure from Llandudno or extra night

End your Welsh odyssey after breakfast.
Before returning to the mainland, we recommend a visit to the Bodnant Gardens, a classic English garden considered among the UK’s finest. Accessible by bus from Llandudno.

ACCOMMODATION

Whatever comfort level you choose, we prioritise accommodation that lets you truly feel the soul of the country, inspiring comfort, friendliness and well-being. We also make every effort to ensure they are well located: easily accessible by bike, and whenever possible close to amenities and places of interest.

AVAILABLE COMFORT LEVELS

Standard Range

Family-run hotels or Bed & Breakfasts

Simple yet welcoming accommodation, selected for their hospitality and location.

Comfort Range

3 ★ equivalent hotels or charming Bed & Breakfasts

Carefully selected addresses combining modern comfort and authenticity.

Photos shown as examples to illustrate the type of accommodation in each category.

Always included:

Full English breakfast
Private bathroom
Bike storage
Restaurant within walking distance
Convenient location

💡

In the United Kingdom, hotel star classifications are much more flexible than on the continent. You may therefore stay in a 2 ★ one night and a 5 ★ the next: this does not always mean very much. Rest assured, however: during our scouting trips, we personally visited most of the selected accommodations and chose them with great care.

Whatever comfort category you choose, most UK accommodations retain a slightly old-fashioned “so British” charm: soft carpets, floral wallpaper, dark wooden furniture, and that famous tea/coffee tray waiting for you.

BIKE CHOICE

Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike suited both to the route and to your personal needs.

RENTAL BIKES

We offer trekking bikes and/or electric bikes of good quality, equipped with all essential accessories. We do not recommend this trip for children under 12 years old, as some stages are quite hilly.

Hybrid / Trekking bikes

Versatile bikes from various brands, with many gears, making them ideal for climbing hills without excessive effort.

Electric bikes (E-bikes)

GIANT Explore models (or similar), equipped with a minimum 500 Wh battery. You can count on a range of at least 70 kilometres with great comfort.

Photos for illustrative purposes. Bikes subject to availability.

Included accessories:

Smartphone holder (1 per bike)
Waterproof rear pannier (1 per bike)
Lock
Repair kit
Helmet(s) on request

IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE

Before departure, carefully check your bike’s condition: brakes, tyres, cassette, derailleur, chain...
You may be far from assistance in case of mechanical issues!

Which bikes are suitable?

Trekking / hybrid bike
Mountain bike (MTB)
Gravel bike
E-bike with good battery range

Road bike
City bike

💡 As the route includes some compact gravel sections, avoid tyres that are too thin or too slick. MTB tyres are not necessary, however.

LEVEL

Our trips prioritise discovery and enjoyment over performance.
We therefore adjust stage lengths according to terrain, type of paths and points of interest, so that each day remains balanced, enjoyable and open to spontaneity.

On some days, a variant (more sporty or more relaxed) is also available, which you can decide to take on the same day.

STAGE LENGTH: STANDARD ℹ️

∅ Average distance: 50 km/day

🔝 Maximum distance: 59 km/day

RELIEF: MODERATE ℹ️

∅ Average elevation gain: +575 m/day

🔝 Maximum elevation gain: +710 m/day

Wales is fairly hilly, even mountainous in some areas, but the route generally follows valley floors, keeping total elevation gain relatively reasonable. However, the roads can feel like roller coasters even within the valleys. Although most climbs are short, they can sometimes be quite steep!
On stages 2 and 3, the route is less undulating but includes one long climb each day, sometimes requiring a continuous ascent of around 200 m. The effort is always generously rewarded by breathtaking highland landscapes.

⚡ To fully enjoy the route, even when it climbs a little, you may opt for an electric bike.

TYPE OF PATHS:

More than 60% of the route follows greenways. Most of the time, you cycle along small country roads with almost no traffic. Some sections also follow canal towpaths or greenways built on former railway lines. Over 90% of the route is paved. The remaining sections are on well-maintained compact gravel tracks. No technical difficulties to report.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

⏱️ DURATION

8 days and 7 nights, including arrival and departure days. 6 days of cycling.

📅 POSSIBLE DEPARTURE DAYS

Every Wednesday and Sunday from mid-April to late October.
The first cycling day (Day 2) therefore falls on a Thursday or a Monday.

🗺️ ROUTE TYPE

Linear.

📍 START & END POINTS

Start of the trip: Chirk
End of the trip: Llandudno

🌦️ WHEN TO GO?

Temperatures are generally pleasant from mid-April to late October.

Influenced by the Gulf Stream, Wales has a very maritime climate: mild and relatively humid all year round, with highly unpredictable weather. Showers are fortunately rarely long (the word showers says it all!) and help keep the hills beautifully green — everything comes at a price! The sun is never far away, and you may feel like experiencing all four seasons in a single day. If it rains, pop into a local shop — it will probably be sunny when you come out!

Late spring and summer are the most pleasant periods.

May and June: Temperatures can still feel a little cool at times, but these are also the sunniest months. Nature is in full bloom: thousands of lambs in the fields, abundant flowers, and the best time for birdwatching, including puffins.
Summer: The warmest temperatures and ideal conditions for sea swimming.
Autumn: Weather can be slightly rainier, though it varies greatly from year to year.

As for the wind, it sometimes blows a little, but the itinerary has been designed so that in the windiest sections (the coast!) you are generally riding with the prevailing winds. Of course, wind remains unpredictable in Wales…

💡 Note: Weather conditions can vary significantly from one year to another. The information above reflects averages only.

🍽️ MEALS

Breakfasts are included.
Lunches and dinners are not included.

During the day, you can eat at local restaurants (you will find recommendations in your roadbook) or prepare a picnic using supplies from local shops.

For dinner, there are always several restaurants within walking distance of your accommodation — unless the hotel has its own restaurant!

💡 If you are travelling as a group, we can arrange half-board.

🧳 LUGGAGE TRANSFER

Your luggage is transferred from one accommodation to the next by one of our partners. You only carry your day essentials during cycling stages. A pannier is provided with rental bikes.

💡 1 piece of luggage up to 20 kg per traveller.

If you prefer to carry your own luggage in panniers, you benefit from a discount.

🚩 GETTING THERE

BY TRAIN

From Paris or Brussels, allow around 6 hours to reach your destination.

Eurostar connects Paris and Brussels to London St Pancras in 2h17 and 1h54 respectively. Departures every 1–2 hours during the day. Boarding possible in Lille.
Once in London, transfer to Euston station (10 minutes on foot or 1 tube stop). From there, allow approximately 3h30 to Chirk, with a connection in Birmingham or Chester depending on departure time.

💡 Good to know: In the UK, travelling outside peak hours is cheaper. Booking well in advance can also secure significant savings for both Eurostar and UK train tickets.

Return from Llandudno:

From Llandudno Junction station (accessible by bus, taxi or train from Llandudno town centre), direct trains to London run about three times per day (approx. 3 hours). You may stop (or even spend a night) in Chester, a charming medieval town in England.

More information:
Book international tickets
Book UK trains

💡 Bikes cannot be taken on Eurostar as they are: they must generally be dismantled and packed. Check their website for details.
Within the UK, bikes travel free of charge on trains subject to availability, but a bike reservation is required. Weekends can be busy with cyclists!

BY CAR

The simplest and most economical option is to take your car on the ferry between Calais and Dover, or between Cherbourg and Poole if travelling from western France.
From Dover, allow approximately 5 hours (traffic permitting). From Poole, the drive is about one hour shorter, but the ferry crossing is longer and more expensive.
Motorways in England are free. Be aware of possible heavy traffic around London and near ferry terminals.

💡 Our roadbook provides information about paid and free parking options.

BY PLANE

The nearest international airport is Liverpool. Manchester and Birmingham airports are also within reasonable distance.
Manchester and Birmingham airports are directly connected to rail networks; from Liverpool airport, you first need to take a bus to the nearest train station.

🔁 RETURNING TO THE STARTING POINT

If your car is parked in Chirk, allow 1h40 to 2h by train from Llandudno (1 connection, approx. £10–20 per person depending on time). Around 1 train per hour.
To avoid a connection at Llandudno Junction, you may take a taxi there (5–10 minutes). The train journey to Chirk (final destination: Birmingham) then takes 1h25.

💡 On Sundays, there is no direct train from Llandudno Junction; a connection in Chester slightly increases travel time.

Private transfer available.

📑 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

To help you fully enjoy your adventure, we provide practical and user-friendly materials:

A roadbook (A5 booklet) written by us, including:

Practical information
Route description
All necessary tourist information
Restaurant suggestions
Supply points
Cultural insights and anecdotes
A list of bike repair shops along the route

A route map

Our navigation app (with your GPS tracks)

User-friendly app (tutorial provided if needed)
Satellite navigation (works in airplane mode)
Customised tracks between each accommodation
Voice guidance

📞 INDEPENDENT TRAVEL & ASSISTANCE

You travel independently (unguided), with 7/7 telephone assistance in case of need.

🛡️ INSURANCE

To ensure reimbursement of costs in case of cancellation or on-site issues, you may take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Cancellation) or assistance insurance (CAP Explorer Assistance). Learn more about insurance options.

💷 MONEY

The local currency is the pound sterling (£). Euros are not accepted. Credit card payments (Visa or Mastercard) are widely accepted. Maestro debit cards are generally accepted as well.

🛂 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

A valid passport is required to enter the United Kingdom.
Customs regulations also restrict certain goods — please check with your Ministry of Foreign Affairs for details.

IMPORTANT: Since 2025, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing £16 (€18.50) is required for all non-British citizens. Similar to the US ESTA system. Official link: Apply online here.

🎒 WHAT TO BRING

A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder and waterproof rear pannier are the basic equipment. If you rent a bike, these are included (helmet on request). For greater comfort, we also recommend bringing the following specific accessories:

Waterproof overtrousers

Lightweight, waterproof and windproof, easy to put on. Protects against rain, splashes and mud. Some models include shoe covers.

Power bank

Useful to recharge your phone during lunch breaks. Navigation consumes battery, even in airplane mode. Recommended unless your battery is very strong.
Budget around €10–20.

Padded cycling shorts or gel saddle cover

Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction on longer rides. Alternatively, use a padded saddle cover.

Water bottle

More practical and sustainable than disposable bottles. Some models keep drinks cool for several hours thanks to insulated double walls.

Buff / neck warmer / beanie

Outside summer, mornings can be cool — you’ll be glad you brought one!

2026 PRICES

The price is calculated based on a stay for two people sharing a double/twin room. All prices are per person and subject to availability of the requested room category.

Package	Standard Category		Comfort Category
Package	Low season	High season	Low season	High season
Double/twin room	999 €	1089 €	1139 €	1239 €
Single room supplement	+ 360 €	+ 390 €	+ 360 €	+ 390 €
Child discounts (sharing a room with 2 adults paying the full rate)	0–3 years: - 80% \| 4–11 years: - 40% \| 12–17 years: - 30%
Group discounts	6–11 people: - 10% \| 12+ people: - 15%

Extra nights (optional)		Standard Category		Comfort Category
Extra nights (optional)		Low season	High season	Low season	High season
Caernarfon	Double/twin room	80 €	90 €	110 €	120 €
Caernarfon	Single room	145 €	165 €	175 €	195 €
Llandudno	Double/twin room	80 €	90 €	110 €	120 €
Llandudno	Single room	155 €	175 €	185 €	205 €

💡 SEASONS

Low season: 16/4 – 31/5 & 1/10 – 31/10
High season: 1/6 – 30/09

BIKE RENTAL (equipment included)
Electric bike	290 €
Trekking bike	190 €

THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES

Accommodation in hotel or Bed & Breakfast in the chosen comfort category
Breakfast at each accommodation
Luggage transfer between accommodations
A detailed roadbook (A5 booklet + PDF), created by us during our reconnaissance trip
GPS tracks of the itinerary via our navigation app
GPS tracks for the Mt. Snowdon hike (via our app)
A route map
Luggage tags
7/7 telephone assistance
Tourist taxes
Administration fees

OPTIONS

Rental bike(s)
Single room supplement
Additional night(s) in Caernarfon and/or Llandudno
Return transfer from Llandudno to Chirk (this journey is also possible by train)
Optional insurance: cancellation and/or assistance

THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

Train journey between Llanfairpwll and Bangor on Day 6 (8 min, approx. £2)
Lunches and dinners
Entrance fees to tourist sites and personal expenses
Travel to Chirk and return from Llandudno
Anything not listed under “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”

SPECIAL CASES

If you carry your own luggage, a discount applies (see booking form). An additional pannier is provided if you rent a bike.

Solo travellers: a logistics supplement applies in addition to the single room supplement.

REVIEWS

Gilles and Isabelle, 49 and 46 years old

“A big thank you to Apolline and Joseph for this enchanting ‘Tour of Wales’. The logistics were TOP. The route and landscapes are absolutely stunning! The e-bikes were perfectly prepared, thanks to Louise and Graham. Off we go for another adventure 🚲🚲 with Cyclodyssées…” August 2025

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