Road Over Usk Reservoir, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
Road Over Usk Reservoir, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Road cycling
5.0
(31)
The Road Over Usk Reservoir offers a unique passage through the heart of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, formerly known as the Brecon Beacons. Situated at an elevation of approximately 307 meters (1,006 feet) in the upper Usk Valley, this area spans the county boundary between Carmarthenshire and Powys. It's renowned for its tranquil waters, the impressive dam, and the surrounding Glasfynnedd Forest, providing a gateway to the remote western reaches of the park, overlooked by the distant Black Mountain escarpment and the Carmarthenshire Fans.
Visitors consistently praise the stunning, expansive views across the Towy valley and the surrounding mountains, especially when cycling or walking the smooth, undulating tarmac sections of the road. Many describe the experience as feeling like being dropped into another planet, highlighting the wild and exposed nature of the landscape. The sense of peace and solitude, with nothing but the sheep for company, is a recurring theme among those who explore this beautiful area.
For those planning a visit, it's wise to prepare for exposed conditions, as the weather can change quickly in this upland environment. While the circular trail around the Usk Reservoir is generally considered intermediate, suitable footwear and layers are always recommended. Parking at Usk Reservoir trailhead is available, making it accessible for those arriving by car. The remote location means facilities are limited, so bringing your own refreshments is advisable.
The Usk Reservoir is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities year-round, offering excellent opportunities for walking, hiking, and cycling. Its status as a Dark Skies Discovery Site makes it one of the National Park's top spots for stargazing, providing exceptionally clear night skies. The 5.4-mile (8 km) circular trail around the reservoir is particularly popular for both walkers and cyclists, offering a mix of compacted-stone forestry tracks and tarmac roads with gentle slopes.
The circular route around the Usk Reservoir is a highlight for many, providing an intermediate challenge with rewarding vistas. This 8-kilometer (5.4-mile) loop can typically be completed in about 2 to 3 hours on foot, or less by bike, making it an ideal half-day adventure. The path offers varied terrain, including sections over the dam itself, allowing for diverse viewpoints of the reservoir and the distant Black Mountains.
Exploring the Road Over Usk Reservoir offers many memorable moments, from witnessing red kites soaring overhead to enjoying a peaceful picnic by the water. The area is rich in wildlife, including various birds of prey, kingfishers, and herons, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The feeling of being truly immersed in nature, far from urban distractions, is a standout experience for many, especially when the sun sets over the distant peaks.
Whether you're seeking a tranquil walk, an invigorating cycle, or simply a place to unwind amidst breathtaking scenery, the Usk Reservoir area has much to offer. You can discover a variety of routes and plan your visit using komoot, finding the perfect intermediate trail for walking or cycling. With its stunning natural features and opportunities for stargazing, it's a truly special corner of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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May 9, 2018
Road cycling
February 3, 2024
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April 28, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Road Over Usk Reservoir, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
5.0
(2)
36
riders
115km
06:00
2,000m
2,000m
Embark on a challenging racebike journey through the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park with the Black Mountain, Devil's Elbow & Usk Reservoir loop. This difficult 71.7-mile (115.4 km) route will test your endurance as you climb 6574 feet (2004 metres) over approximately 6 hours. You will experience expansive moorland and rugged peaks, with panoramic views across the Towy Valley. Expect dramatic scenery and serene water views around the Usk Reservoir.
This demanding road cycling route requires a very good level of fitness. Be aware that some initial segments for the Black Mountain climb from Pont Aber might be unpaved, which can be difficult for road bikes. The A4069 section can also be narrow with traffic, so stay alert and plan your ride carefully. Ensure you are prepared for a full day on the saddle.
This loop is renowned for its iconic climbs, including the Black Mountain Pass, which many compare to the Alps, and the notorious Devil's Elbow. As you ride, you might spot wildlife like Red Kites, especially near the Usk Reservoir. The route offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Welsh landscape.
4
riders
72.4km
04:05
1,420m
1,420m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
212km
11:24
3,320m
3,320m
Tackle the Brecon Beacons Devil long loop from Hay on Wye, a difficult 131.7-mile road cycling route with 10885 feet of climbing.
Details
Informations
Distance 6.24 km
Uphill 50 m
Downhill 40 m
Weather
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Tuesday 5 May
13°C
6°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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The circular trail around Usk Reservoir is generally considered intermediate. It covers a distance of 5.4 miles (8 km) and features undulating terrain with some long slopes. The path is a mix of compacted-stone forestry tracks and smooth tarmac roads, making it suitable for both walking and cycling. While not overly strenuous, it requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Absolutely. The dam itself offers picturesque views of the reservoir and the distant Black Mountains. As you traverse the road and circular trail, you'll encounter stunning, expansive views across the Towy valley and the Carmarthenshire Fans. The area is also known for its wildlife, including red kites, other birds of prey, kingfishers, and herons, making it a great spot for nature observation.
Car parking facilities are available at the Usk Reservoir trailhead, making it accessible for those arriving by car. The location is remote, so arriving early, especially during peak times, is advisable. Public transport options to this remote part of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park are extremely limited or non-existent. Visitors typically rely on private vehicles to reach the reservoir.
Yes, the Usk Reservoir area is generally family-friendly, especially the circular trail which offers a manageable distance and varied terrain. Picnic areas are available for relaxation. It is also dog-friendly, but dogs should be kept under control, ideally on a lead, especially due to the presence of sheep and local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your dog.
Given the exposed and wild nature of the area, it's crucial to dress in layers. Even on sunny days, conditions can change quickly. We recommend waterproof and windproof outer layers, as well as suitable footwear for walking (sturdy hiking boots) or cycling. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also important, as is bringing enough water and snacks, as facilities are limited.
The Usk Reservoir is situated in a remote part of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, meaning nearby facilities are very limited. There are no cafes or pubs directly at the reservoir. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments. For accommodation or dining, you would need to travel to nearby villages or towns, such as Trecastle, which is approximately 6 miles away, or further afield.
Usk Reservoir is a designated Dark Skies Discovery Site, making it one of the National Park's top locations for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. It's also highly regarded for fishing, particularly for trout, though permits may be required. The tranquil environment is also perfect for photography, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst stunning scenery.
The 5.4-mile (8 km) circular route around Usk Reservoir can typically be completed in about 2 to 3 hours on foot, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. For cyclists, it can be completed in less time, often within 1 to 2 hours, making it an ideal half-day adventure for both activities.
Many visitors describe the experience as feeling like being dropped into another planet, highlighting the wild, exposed, and remote nature of the landscape. The smooth, undulating tarmac sections are particularly appreciated by cyclists, offering panoramic views. Its status as a Dark Skies Discovery Site and the sense of peace and solitude, often with only sheep for company, contribute to its unique charm.
The Usk Reservoir is beautiful year-round, but specific activities might be better at certain times. For stargazing, clear, moonless nights are best, typically in autumn and winter when the nights are longer. For cycling and walking, spring and summer offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, though the area is exposed and can be windy. Autumn provides stunning foliage. Winter can be wild and exposed but offers a unique, stark beauty.