Black Mountain Climb from Pont Aber

Although not the classic side of the Black Mountain, this is still a fantastic road to climb that crosses the spine of the mountain and immerses you in some of the best scenery Wales has to offer.

It’s a kilometre into the slope before you escape Brynamman and enter the open land but from then on it is pure bliss. After two kilometres the road bends left as it rises above the valley below on your right. Meandering across the featureless landscape, exposed to whatever mother nature has in store the majestic strip of tarmac gradually makes its way towards the summit.

With no markers on the horizon, no sharp bends or features to focus on the ascent is a test for the mind and body. Grind out whatever gear you can on the consistent 6-7% slope all the way to the exposed plateau then get ready for the exhilarating descent.

The Black Mountain Climb, included in Simon Warren's original 100 Greatest Climbs list. It was probably included for two reasons 1) it's a toughie gaining over 300m in just under 5 miles. The steepest bit is 21.6% inside one of the hairpins. Ouch! 2) it's beautiful with stunning views over the Towy Valley. Don't forget to look over your shoulder as you climb up because this view is not one to be missed!

Congratulations. You have just climbed the famous Black Mt, but from a side that not many know of and you can probably tell why. The lane is rough to begin with and has some steep sections as you navigate sheep but the last 14km has had an average grade of 3.3%. That's pretty nasty.