North Wales by bike

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

If there was a land that has remained relatively unknown to the general public, yet so close and exotic at the same time, it would undoubtedly be this small piece of wild terrain, fiercely attached to its Celtic roots, which is Wales.
Being the smallest of the 4 nations constituting the United Kingdom, this off-the-beaten-path destination is only 3 hours away by train from London.

Wales, perhaps even more than its neighbors, Scotland and Ireland, is a land steeped in mysticism, where everything seems to have been designed to make our usual reference points disappear and immerse us in an exciting romanticized imagination! The high plateaus, swept by the wind, invite meditation both due to their vastness and their raw beauty. Only sparse vegetation manages to thrive on these harsh lands. Then, as you descend into the valleys, the bleating of thousands of sheep gradually pulls us out of our solitude. The brownish colors of the burnt moorlands give way to the vivid green of pastures. As for the skies, they seem to be nothing more than a reflection of these gigantic, undulating expanses, forming a mosaic of clouds, some darker than others (like the sheep!). Probably even more so than in Brittany, you will experience the four seasons within the same day... along with the accompanying rainbows!

As we approach the bottoms of the valleys, the vegetation becomes increasingly lush, and impenetrable forests then block the way. Nestled in the depths of these dark valleys, stone villages with sweet names like LLanwrst, Penrhyndeudraeth, Pwllheli, or even Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (yes, that's the name of a village, nobody fell asleep on its keyboard) further illustrate the indomitable character of Wales. While the English, much more numerous, eventually asserted themselves with gigantic fortresses (Wales has the highest density of castles per square kilometer!), the proud Welsh did not let their soul be stolen. The Welsh language, remains the most widely spoken Celtic language in the world, and more than 700 years of English rule later, many residents still use it in their daily lives.

That being said, the Welsh are very welcoming, and you won't have any trouble communicating in English. As for Wales itself, if you don't mind an occasional shower or a slightly steep slope now and then, it's an absolute delight to explore it by bicycle. The landscapes are extremely varied and delightfully beautiful. The small stone villages and fortresses will transport you to another time. But Wales will also delight those who love the dolce vita: beautiful white sandy beaches, sea bathing, enchanting English gardens, and diverse cuisine are all part of the experience! And if the destination doesn't yet have the same reputation as Scotland, it's good to know that it's actually less rainy, less expensive, less touristy, and less distant than the latter. Take note, and farewell!

By train or car, make your way to the tranquil town of Chirk, just across the Welsh border. You are now at the starting point of your Welsh odyssey! If you arrive early enough, take the opportunity to visit its lovely castle, which is beautifully furnished!

To reach Chirk, it takes about 3 hours by train from London (or 5 hours by car from Dover).


Day 2 (Stage 1): Chirk - Bala (36 mi/ 58 km - Elevation gain: 1,476 ft/ 450 m)

This first stage will treat your eyes from the first miles, as you follow the picturesque Llangollen Canal, leading to the dizzying Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arriving in the charming town of Llangollen, a little detour to Plas Newydd will amaze you with its extraordinary interior architecture, envisioned by two "romantic friends" who lived there in the 13th century.

You then leave the canal and venture into the green sheep-filled countryside of the Welsh hinterland. Along the way, you can admire the ruins of Valle Crucis Abbey. A few thousand sheep later, you arrive in Bala, a typical little town that will welcome you for the night.


Day 3 (Stage 2): Bala - Dolgellau (29 mi/ 47 km - Elevation gain: 2,329 ft/ 710 m)

After cycling along the Llyn Tegid Lake, you gradually ascend to the high plateaus, with endless landscapes that seem straight out of The Lord of the Rings. A single-track road winds delightfully through this desolate environment for about 20 km (about 12 miles). On the other side of the plateau, you gradually descend into the Mawddach Valley, where the vegetation becomes increasingly lush. Protected from the wind, luxuriant vegetation can flourish here! By the end of the day, you reach the charming village of Dolgellau, where the gray granite houses will make you feel the true soul of the country.


Day 4 (Stage 3): Dolgellau - Llanbedr (18/29 mi - 29/47 km - Elevation gain: 820/2,165 ft - 250/660 m)

The day begins gently along the beautiful Mawddach Trail, a former railway line converted into a greenway. It follows the estuary of the Mawddach River for about six miles before flowing into the sea. Just before the estuary, the route veers towards the mountain and takes you, some 200 m (about 650 ft) higher, to the Cregennan Lakes, two small alpine lakes nestled in an idyllic setting. From there, the route continues through meadows with sheep perched on the hillside above the sea, offering sublime panoramas. You then descend to the coast, which you will now follow - closely or from a distance - until you reach Llanbedr, your destination for the day. Along the way, you pass through the village of Fairbourne, considered to be the first village in the United Kingdom that will be submerged by rising waters, and the seaside resort of Barmouth, which boasts a superb white sandy beach. On a clear day, sunbathers or sea swimmers can relax here for the rest of the afternoon - a train will help you make up for lost time later!


Day 5 (Stage 4): Llanbedr - Caernarfon (37 mi/59 km - Elevation gain: 2,297 ft/ 700 m)

If the route doesn't run directly along the sea, it's to gain a bit of altitude and better admire it! The sporty option will challenge you with the steepest slope in the world, approaching 40%! This offers you splendid panoramas throughout the day. Midway, a detour allows you to discover the village of Portmeirion, a former fishing village that an eccentric architect transformed into a Mediterranean-style village reminiscent of Portofino, with pastel-colored houses designed to create a haven of beauty.

The last part of the day is on a former railway line transformed into a greenway, allowing you to cover the last 15 km (9 miles) with ease (which is convenient because this stage is a bit longer!). At the end of the course, you reach Caernarfon, a beautiful medieval town living in the shadow of its monumental UNESCO-listed fortress.


Day 6 (Stage 5): Caernarfon - Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch // Bangor (24/27 mi - 39/44 km - Elevation gain: 1,542/1,444 ft - 470/440 m)

Two options are offered today.

1. In good weather, a detour through Llanberis before reaching Anglesey allows you to ascend the legendary Mount Snowdon. With its 1085 m (3,560 ft), it is the highest point in Wales. The ascent is generally done with a cogwheel train, but the more athletic can also hike up (in which case, wake up early as the ascent takes 3 hours!). Llanberis is also home to the National Slate Museum, dedicated to the rock that enriched North Wales.

2. Alternatively, the option through Beaumaris allows you to opt for a sea excursion to get a closer look at Puffin Island, a rock where many seabirds nest, including the famous puffin! Beaumaris is also a pretty seaside village with colorful houses, home to a powerful fortress submerged in the middle of a beautiful marsh.

Anglesey Island, which you reach after crossing the impressive Menai Suspension Bridge, also allows you to stroll to an island as small as it is mystical: Church Island. A 15th-century church, an old cemetery, and Celtic crosses await your arrival. In foggy weather, it appears to be haunted.
Your journey on the island ends at Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, which, with its 58 letters, is Europe's longest place name. A photo in front of the train station sign is a must before hailing the train (yes, otherwise, it won't stop!) that will take you to the town of Bangor. This short rail connection allows you to avoid a less interesting section (although the most motivated can cycle it).


Day 7 (Stage 6): Bangor - Llandudno (32 mi/ 52 km - Elevation gain: 1,375 ft/ 420 m)

A shorter stage awaits you today to Llandudno. The route follows the sea closely or from a distance throughout. Along the way, you can visit the opulent Penrhyn Castle, hike to the Aber FallsConwy, an excellent midday stop, whether for a stroll along its ramparts, in its historic center, or at its imposing UNESCO-listed fortress. You then cross the estuary of the river with the same name before arriving in Llandudno, a seaside resort with typical Victorian houses. Once very upscale, the resort has retained its old-world charm. Don't miss the chance to end your trip with a bang by completing the tour of the Great Orme peninsula, on a stunning narrow road built above the cliffs throughout.


Day 8: Departure from Llandudno (or additional night in LLandudno)

Before heading back to the continent, we recommend taking an excursion to Bodnant Gardens, a garden in the pure English style and considered one of the most beautiful in the UK. The site is accessible by bus from Llandudno.

If you have the opportunity to extend your journey by a day and a night, we suggest cycling to Betws-y-Coed (26 mi), from where you can return to Llandudno by train. The route will take you through bucolic countryside, and along the way, you'll pass by Bodnant Gardens, which you can visit on your way.

1. Duration: 8 days and 7 nights, including arrival and departure days. 6 days of cycling. Seventh day of cycling is optional. You have the option to book extra nights at some locations to extend the enjoyment.


2. Minimum Age: 12 years old


3. Seasonality: from mid-April to late October.
   
   Cradled by the Gulf Stream, Wales is characterized by a very maritime climate: it is mild and relatively humid year-round, and the weather is highly unpredictable. Fortunately, showers are rarely lengthy. The sun is indeed never far away, and you may experience all four seasons in a single day. If it rains, go to the supermarket; it will probably be sunny when you come out!
   
   Late spring and summer are the most pleasant periods.
   
   May and June, while temperatures can still be a bit cool at times, are the sunniest months. It's also the time when nature comes to life: you'll see thousands of lambs and blooming flowers. This is the best time to visit gardens (such as Bodnant Gardens) and for birdwatching, including puffins.
   Summer is also a good period: temperatures are the most pleasant. July is generally sunnier than August. It's also a great time for swimming in the sea. Although it's the busiest tourist season, it's unlikely to impact you much since you'll be cycling on small, low-traffic roads most of the time.
   At the beginning of autumn, temperatures are generally still pleasant, but the weather is rainier, and the days shorter.
   As for the wind, the area can be quite windy, but the route has been designed so that in the windiest sections (the coast!), you'll be riding with the prevailing winds! However, it's all a matter of statistics; the wind can be capricious in Wales…
   
   Note: The weather can vary greatly from one year to another. The information described here represents averages.
   
   
4. Possible arrival days: Saturdays and Sundays (first day of cycling : Sundays and Mondays)
   
   On request, it is possible to start on another day of the week (subject to availability)
   
   If you want to have 1 or 2 extra nights in Caernarfon or Llandudno, it's possible!
   
   
5. Administrative Procedures:
   
   From any other country than UK, a valid passport is required to enter the country. Customs also impose restrictions on the transport of certain goods: check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for more information.
   
   IMPORTANT: Since 2025, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) costing £10 (€12) is also required for any non-British citizen. It is the same system as in the USA for those who are familiar with it. Here is the official link to purchase it online.
   
   
6. Money:
   
   The local currency is the British pound (£). Euros are not accepted. Credit card payments are almost always possible, and Mastercard and VISA cards are accepted almost everywhere. Debit card payments with Maestro are generally possible as well.
   
   
7. Arrival and Return:
   
   
   • Start of the trip: Chirk
   
   
   • End of the trip: Llandudno
   
   
   Train +

   • To get to London from the continent, the easiest way is to take the Eurostar from Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam (there is a direct connection).
     From London Euston: It takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach Chirk with a connection in Birmingham or Chester, depending on your departure time. At certain times of the day, it may be cheaper to take the journey with 2 connections (for only a slightly longer travel time).
     Also, traveling outside of peak hours is less expensive!
     
     
   • Return:
     From Llandudno Junction (accessible by bus, taxi, or train from the center of Llandudno), there are direct trains to London about 3 times a day (approximately 3 hours of travel). On the way, you can stop (or even spend the night!) in Chester, England, a charming medieval city.
     
     

   Important Notes:
   If the train between London and Wales doesn't require a prior reservation, a reservation is necessary for the Eurostar.
   By booking your train between London and Wales in advance, you could benefit from discounts.
   
   More Information:
   International tickets: www.eurostar.com
   United Kingdom: www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk
   
   Please note that bicycles cannot be taken on the Eurostar as they are. They need to be dismantled and packed. You can find more information on their website.
   
   Within the United Kingdom, bikes travel for free on trains, subject to availability. However, a bike ticket should be reserved. On weekends, there are many cyclists traveling by train.
   Car +

   Coming from the continent, the simplest and most economical solution is to take your car on the ferry between Calais and Dover.
   From Dover, it takes about 5 hours of travel if traffic is smooth.
   
   Highways in the United Kingdom are free. However, depending on the time, there can be significant traffic around London and on the highway leading to the ferry terminal, so plan accordingly.
   Airplane +

   The nearest international airport is Liverpool. Manchester and Birmingham airports are not far away either. Manchester and Birmingham airports are directly connected to the rail system; from Liverpool Airport, you'll first need to take a bus to the nearest train station.
   
   
   • Return to the start point of the tour:
     
     If you arrived by car, it is possible to get back to Chirk in about 1h40-2h by train from Llandudno (1 connection, count approximately £10-15 per person depending on the time).
     To avoid a connection in Llandudno Junction, you can also take a cab there (about 5-10 minutes from Llandudno), where you then have only 1h25 left to Chirk (final destination of the train: Birmingham).
     There is one train per hour.
     On Sundays, there are no direct trains from Llandudno Junction; a connection in Chester makes the journey slightly longer.
     
     A private transfer to Chirk is also possible (180 €/car)


8. Parking :
   
   Our roadbook will inform you about paid and free car parks in Chirk where you can leave your car during your bike trip.


9. Meeting point :
   
   The cycling journey begins on Day 2. The bikes will be delivered to your hotel on the morning of departure around 9:00-9:30 am, or the evening before departure.


10. Type of Route:
    
    Itinerant (linear).


11. Guidance:
    
    Self-guided, with telephone assistance in case of mechanical issues. To navigate, you will have a detailed roadbook, as well as GPS tracks of the route via an easy-to-use navigation app. As the navigation is satellite-based, no internet connection is required.


12. Level: Moderate to quite sporty (but quite easy by e-bike)
    
    
    • Elevation changes: Wales is quite hilly, even mountainous in some areas, but the route often follows the valleys, which keeps the cumulative elevation relatively limited. However, the roads can sometimes be like roller coasters even within the valleys, and while the climbs are usually short, they can be quite steep in places!
      On the 2nd and 3rd stage, the route is less hilly, but there is a long ascent at each of these stages, with an elevation gain of sometimes up to 200 meters (650 ft) to overcome in one go. Fortunately, the effort is always well rewarded by the breathtaking landscapes from the heights.
      If you are unsure about your level, we recommend opting for an electric bike to fully enjoy the journey.
    
    
    • Stage Length: Approximately 40-60 km (ca. 25-35 miles) which is about 3 to 4 hours of cycling per day, allowing you time for numerous stops along the way.
    
    
    • Terrain: Over 90% of the roads are asphalt. Some compact gravel paths, which do not require suspensions or mountain bike tires.

All the details are summarized in the table below.



Table 1: Distances and height differences

WALES
Stage	Variant	Km / miles	Elevation gain (m/ft)	Drop (m/ft)	Estimated time
Day 1	Arrival in Chirk
Day 2 (stage 1) Chirk - Bala	Normal	58 km / 36 mi	450 m / 1476 ft	390 m / 1280 ft	4h00
Day 3 (stage 2) Bala - Dolgellau	Normal	47 km / 29 mi	710 m / 2330 ft	860 m / 2820 ft	3h14
Day 4 (stage 3) Dolgellau - Llanbedr	Relax	29 km / 18 mi	250 m / 820 ft	250 m / 820 ft	1h55
	Sporty	47 km / 29 mi	660 m / 2165 ft	660 m / 2165 ft	3h30
Day 5 (stage 4) Llanbedr - Caernarfon	Normal	59 km / 37 mi	700 m / 2300 ft	710 m / 2330 ft	3h55
Day 6 (stage 5) Caernarfon - Bangor	via Llanberis	39 km / 24 mi	470 m / 1540 ft	450 m / 1480 ft	2h35
	via Beaumaris	44 km / 27 mi	440 m / 1440 ft	420 m / 1380 ft	2h49
Day 7 (stage 6) Bangor - Llandudno	Normal	52 km / 32 mi	420 m / 1380 ft	440 m / 1440 ft	3h26
Day 8	End of tour




13. Accommodation:
    
    2-3* hotels or equivalent comfort bed & breakfasts. We prioritize charming accommodations whenever possible, giving you a sense of the country's spirit. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom and all accommodations have some space to store your bicycles.


14. Meals:
    
    Breakfasts are included. Lunch and dinner are at your leisure. During the day, you can lunch at local restaurants (you'll find daily suggestions in our roadbook) or have a picnic by shopping at local grocery stores.
    
    Half-board is not available on this tour, but you'll always have several restaurants within walking distance of your accommodation if there is no restaurant in the hotel itself.


15. Luggage Transfer:
    
    You only need to carry your day's belongings during the cycling stages. We'll transport your luggage from one accommodation to another. You'll find them at your accommodation at the end of the day.
    You can also choose to carry your belongings with you in side panniers (that we can provide), like long-distance cyclists. You'll receive a discount in this case.


16. Travel Documents:
    
    A detailed roadbook (Dutch or English), a topographical map of the route and GPS tracks (via our navigation app) will be sent to you before your departure.
    
    The roadbook, which you'll also receive in hard copy, contains not only a description of the route, but also a wealth of tourist and cultural information, restaurant suggestions and places to buy food along the way.


17. Bicycles:
    
    We offer quality bikes for hire, fully equipped and adapted to the type of terrain.
    
    Equipment includes a smartphone holder, a waterproof pannier, a lock, a repair set and (on request) a helmet.
    
    An electric bike can be hired for this trip.
    
    If you wish to bring your own bike, remember to check all the parts of the bike beforehand (wear and tear of brakes, tyres, sprockets, chain, etc.) to ensure that it is in technical order for a ride of 300 km (ca. 185 miles).
    
    The bikes suitable for this trip are trekking bikes (hybrid bikes), mountain bikes, gravel bikes and e-bikes (with a good battery). Road bikes (tyres too thin for the gravel sections) and city bikes (insufficient number of gears) are not suitable.


18. Equipment to bring:
    
    Bring clothes adapted to the climatic/meteorologic conditions. You can use our suggested list to make sure you don't forget anything in your luggage.
    


19. Cancellation and assistance insurances:
    
    In order to guarantee reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay or in the event of problems (e.g. health, accident, theft, lost luggage, ...) during the trip, you can opt for a cancellation (CAP Explorer - premium cancellation) and/or assistance insurance (CAP Exporer - premium assistance). To learn more about our proposed insurances, click more info or ask us.

• A detailed roadbook in English or Dutch, produced by us during our scouting trip (Paper booklet + PDF)
• The GPS tracks of the route via our navigation app
• The GPS tracks of the hikes to Mt. Snowdon and to the Aber Falls (via our app)
• A topographic map of the tour
• 7 nights in 2-3* hotels or equivalent guesthouses
• 7 breakfasts
• The transport of your luggage between the accommodations
• Luggage tags
• Access to our hotline (7/7, 8am-8pm) and assistance and guidance in the event of a problem (except simple repairs such as punctures/derailments)
• Tourist taxes
• Registration fees

• The rental of trekking bikes or e-bikes
• The single room supplement
• The comfort+ supplement (superior accomodation or rooms)
• A private transfer from Llandudno to Chirk at the end of the tour. Note that it is also possible to return to Chirk by train.
• Additional nights in Caernarfon and/or Llandudno
• Optional insurances: cancellation and/or assistance

• The trip from your home to the meeting point, as well as the return.
• Lunch and evening meals
• The train connection between Llanfairpwll and Bangor on Day 6 (8 min., around 2 £)
• Visits and other personal expenses
• Anything not listed in “the price includes”

• If you wish to transport your luggage yourself from one accommodation to another, in this case you benefit from a discount. An additional bag will then be provided to you. Be careful though, on the hill, you may struggle a little if you don't have electric bikes!
• A discount for children is provided (see table above). This discount applies if there are at least two adults and the family agrees to stay in family rooms when available. A discount is also applied for large groups.
• A 'solo traveller' supplement of 200 € is counted for individuals doing this tour alone.