Machynlleth Moorland Mountain Loop

Mid Wales at its wildest. The loop climbs out of town onto a high, exposed moorland plateau of rough grass, old mining scars and enormous skies, then drops into green river valleys and small villages before rising over one more broad pass on the way home.

It is really two rides joined end to end. The opening climb is narrow, open to the weather and the hardest stretch, while the valley roads that follow are wider, quicker and full of long sweeping bends. It suits riders with some mountain experience who want a proper half-day, and it is best in settled weather from late spring to early autumn. Fuel is scarce, so start with a full tank.