Great Motorcycle Rides in Wales
This summer I’m starting my tour of Wales on a motorcycle. It was something I’d planned to do in 2020, but for obvious reasons, I had to put my plans on hold. The idea for the tour came about after reading ‘Wild Wales’. In 1854 George Borrow, a travel writer from East Anglia took his wife and step-daughter on a tour of Wales.
His book ‘Wild Wales’ is a fascinating account of his journey. After reading the book I thought it would be interesting to see how much the country has changed. Make a comparison of the people, their careers, the language, food, the arts, and literature and of course its landscape. Now in 2023, everything has opened up and this summer the tour is happening.
In the meantime, I thought you might like to consider riding in Wales yourself. I’ve put together this relatively short list to whet your appetite. Wales is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and thrilling motorcycle rides. From winding mountain roads to picturesque coastal routes, with plenty of tight turns and steep hills to keep you on your toes. It’s a must-do motorcycle tour.
North Wales
North Wales is home to some of the best motorcycle roads in the world. From winding mountain pass’ to stunning coastal routes. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ride or a leisurely cruise, North Wales has it all.
Snowdonia National Park
Hidden away in the northwest corner of Wales lies one of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the British Isles — Snowdonia National Park. With its towering mountains, rugged coastlines and stunning lakes, Snowdonia is one of the most popular motorcycle ride destinations in the country. This stunning park is full of winding roads, stunning views, and exciting challenges. The roads range from easy to difficult, so there’s something for every rider.
One of the best roads in the park is the Llanberis Pass, a narrow, winding mountain pass that runs between the Snowdonia National Park and the town of Llanberis, taking you up through the Snowdonia mountain range and offering stunning views of the landscape. The park is also home to a range of charming towns and villages, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. From the bustling town of Barmouth to the quaint fishing village of Beddgelert, Snowdonia has something for everyone.
The Llyn Peninsula
The Llyn Peninsula is another popular destination for motorcycle riders. The main attraction is the incredible coastal roads that meander along the cliffs and down to secluded beaches. The roads are not overly challenging, but they will keep you entertained with their twists and turns. You can make a few stops along the way to take in the stunning views of the sea and the rolling hills. The Nefyn and District Motorcycle Club is a great resource for riders looking to explore the area with a range of routes and attractions to suggest. The club also organizes regular meet-ups and events for riders to get together and share stories.
One of the best roads in the Llyn Peninsula is the A497 coast road offering stunning views throughout. A great road for experienced riders, as it has some challenging corners and tight turns.
The A55 Coastal Route
The A55 Coastal Route is a great way to explore North Wales. This stunning route takes you up the coast road to the East of North Wales through small villages, stunning beaches, and lush green hills. From the rolling hills of Anglesey to the dramatic cliffs of the Great Orme, you’ll never be at a loss for incredible vistas. You’ll be treated to a unique blend of natural beauty, from the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the countryside. The Irish Sea becomes visible a couple of miles before Colwyn Bay and continues through Llandudno, Conwy, Bangor and on to Caernarfon.
With its winding roads and stunning scenery, the views along the way are breathtaking, and you’ll get to see the beauty of North Wales from a different perspective. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a veteran biker, there’s something for everyone. And with its easy access to towns and villages, it’s the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat and great coffee.
The Great Orme
Whilst riding the A55 coastal route, Llandudno is a great place to stop. If for no other reason than to ride to the top of the Great Orme, an unforgettable experience. The Great Orme is a massive limestone headland, with sweeping views of the coastline and the Irish Sea. The roads that lead around the headland offer some of the best rides in the region, with plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery.
The road up to the top is one way and has been often used as a stage in the GB rally. With plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, the Great Orme is home to one of the region’s most thrilling roads. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled ride, this is the place to be.
Mid Wales
Mid Wales is a motorcyclist’s paradise, with plenty of winding roads and stunning scenery to keep you entertained. From the Brecon Beacons to the Cambrian Mountains, there’s something for riders of all levels of experience.
The Cambrian Mountains
The Cambrian Mountains stretch across mid-Wales, spanning over 3,000 square miles. They are divided into four distinct regions: Snowdonia in the north, the Berwyns in the east, the Radnorshire Hills in the south, and the Pembrokeshire Coast in the west. The highest peak in the Cambrian Mountains is Cadair Idris near Dolgellau, rising to a height of 893 meters (2932 feet).
The Cambrian Mountains are home to some of the best motorcycle rides in Mid Wales. The A44 is a great option, taking you through the stunning forests of Plynlimon and the Elan Valley. The A482 is another popular route, taking you through the picturesque town of Llanidloes and offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. The B4518 is a great option for those looking for a longer ride, as it takes you through the stunning valleys of the Cambrian Mountains.
You’ll pass numerous lakes and reservoirs with plenty of tight turns and steep hills as the roads climb in and out of the valleys. The Cambrian Mountains offer some of the most spectacular views in Wales. This route is a great way to explore the area and take in the beauty of the Welsh countryside.
The Elan Valley
This stunning area of the country boasts a picturesque landscape of valleys, hills, forests, and majestic reservoirs. This route takes you through the breathtaking Welsh countryside, with plenty of winding roads and tight turns to keep you entertained. The roads are well-maintained and have great visibility, making it an ideal route for inexperienced riders.
The Elan Valley is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Wales, so make sure and take in the views along the way. The Elan Valley has been inhabited since the Iron Age, and the area has seen many different cultures over the centuries. The valley was once the home of a thriving community, known as the Elanites, who lived in small villages in the area.
The Elanites were renowned for their skill in metalworking, and evidence of their craftsmanship can still be seen in the form of ancient monuments and burial sites scattered throughout the valley.
The Wye Valley
The Wye Valley is an area of unspoiled beauty and history that is often overlooked by tourists. From its stunning landscapes and picturesque villages to its vibrant culture and fascinating wildlife, the Wye Valley is a must-see destination. The roads here are mostly narrow and winding, offering plenty of challenges and spectacular views.
The Wye Valley is suitable for all levels of motorcyclists, and you can choose from a variety of routes to suit your skill level. You can take your time and enjoy the scenery, or push yourself and take on some of the more challenging roads.
South Wales
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting, the routes in the south of the country offer something for everyone. From rolling hills and stunning coastlines to bustling cities and picturesque villages, these routes provide a unique experience.
The Black Mountain Pass
The Black Mountain Pass is a winding road that stretches from Brecon to Abergavenny. It’s got plenty of twists and curves, so it’s best suited for experienced riders. The views from the top of the pass are simply stunning, so some time to admire the scenery. The Black Mountain Pass offers excellent opportunities for photography, so make sure you bring your camera and snap some shots of the incredible landscape. You won’t regret it!
The Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire Coast
The Gower Peninsula is a stretch of coastline in the South West of Wales. It’s a great place to explore on a motorcycle, as the roads are winding and the scenery is breathtaking. It’s easy to see why motorcyclists flock to the area. The Gower Peninsula is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other animals as you ride through the area. The A487 is a great route, taking you through picturesque towns such as Fishguard and Tenby. The A478 is another popular route, offering stunning views of the coast. The B4585 is a great option for those looking for a longer ride, as it takes you through the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons National Park is another great destination for motorcycle riders. This stunning region has some of the best roads in the UK. One of the best roads in the park is the A470. This winding road takes you up and over the mountains with views of the landscape. As you ascend, the road gets more and more challenging. If you’re looking for a longer ride, the Abergavenny Loop is a great choice, taking you through the delightful village of Llangynidr and offering stunning views of the Usk Valley.
