Welsh Border to Irish Sea Bikepacking — Trans Cambrian Way

The Trans Cambrian Way deserves a spot on every bikepacker’s bucket list: a varied and challenging route measuring just over 100 miles or 170km. The most eager will try and crack it in only two days, or even non-stop, but three days is the perfect number to aim for to be able to take in the spectacular beauty of the heart of Wales whilst tackling this off-road course. Even over three days, there is still a considerable amount of climbing, so it’s good to attempt the Trans Cambrian Way with a good level of fitness.

Starting in the Welsh border market town of Knighton, and crossing through mid Wales with a route that’s anything but direct to the coastline at the mouth of the river Dyfi (Dovey in English), this popular route has it all. Forest trails, quiet lanes, singletrack, bothies and river crossings: this is the ultimate Welsh MTB adventure.

For many, the highlight will likely be the stunning Elan Valley, a network of five man-made reservoirs and six beautiful dams dating back to the early 1900's. The gravel track that hugs the hillside, contouring around Claerwen Reservoir is simply breathtaking and makes the climbing all the more worth the effort.

Make sure you keep well supplied along the route when you pass through villages with shops and cafes, as large parts of the route are relatively remote, especially towards the end on the third day. Access is good as the route both starts and ends at train stations, but if you would like to extend your stay at the end, head North to Machynlleth for a gorgeous little country town with many thriving pubs and places to stay.

A mountain bike will be the best tool for the job on the Trans Cambrian Way, although if you’re set on drop bars then a gravel bike would suffice if you don’t mind a little hike-a-bike! Make sure you take the time to visit the two bothies en route; Claerddu and Nant Rhys, and do stay in the latter on the second night for a cosy shelter in true bikepacking style. You’ll need to take a sleeping bag and mat for these, plus a stove and food for dinner and breakfast is a good idea unless you’re eating in a pub nearby. If you’ve got space for a pack of playing cards, they always go down well too!

The best time of year for the Trans Cambrian Way is in the summer months, when water levels will hopefully be lower and the terrain more easy-going. Some riders do attempt the route in the transition months and winter, but if you’d like to try this then please do be especially careful during water crossings and in remote areas.