ÒThe Radnor RingÓ is a new signed Sustrans route (25) -
across the Radnorshire Hills to the Wye Valley. This cycle route is easy to
follow through the welsh hills, its signposted all the way. It also follows
part of the Route 8 Lon Las Cymru, from Rhayader down to Newbridge. The
route takes you through wild open countryside & moorland and Red Kite
country. ThereÕs even a Red Kite feeding station next to your
accommodation in Rhayader. Staying at Knighton, Rhayader, and Presteigne.
There are lots of hills and a high mileage of 46 miles
on one day (thatÕs why we call it a challenge). Total 114 miles/ 184km.
Day 1. Petchfield Farm to Knighton. 14 miles/ 22km. A
leisurely start, following the River Teme to the border town of Knighton.
Plenty of time for lunch at the riverside inn. Lots of other routes
available to extend the dayÕs cycle ride.
Day 2. Knighton to Rhayader. 35 miles/ 56km. Pick up
the official Radnor Ring route at Knighton (Sustrans route 25). Follow
the River Teme, across Glyndwr's Way and Offa's Dyke deep into the Welsh
hill country - with magnificent views. Cycle on old DroversÕ routes to the
River Ithon & the water meadows of Abbeycwmhir -with its ruined
Cistercian abbey & grand Victorian house to visit. One last hill &
down to the market town of Rhayader. Explore the Elan Valley dams &
lakes on the fantastic new cycle path & sculpture trail. Or visit the
Red Kite feeding station at Gigrin Farm to watch these spectacular birds.
Day 2. Knighton to Rhayader. 35 miles/ 56km. This is
where you start the Sustrans Regional Route 25. ItÕs signed all the way.
ItÕs best to pick up picnic supplies at Knighton - there are no convenient
places for refreshments on todayÕs route. From Knighton the cycle route
follows the Heart of Wales line, across the hills and down into the Lugg
Valley at Llangunllo. Tiny open moorland roads lead you to the River
Irthon and Abbeycwmhir. One final hill (417m) and then its downhill all
the way to Rhayader. If you have time- explore the Elan Valley dams &
lakes on the fantastic new cycle path (tea shop at visitor centre).
Day 3. Rhayader to Presteigne. 47 miles/ 76km. The
first part of todayÕs route follows the Welsh National Cycle Route, down
the River Wye. After that, crossing a series of hills and open moorland to
Kington and Presteigne. This is a challenging day of a total of 47 miles.
Take plenty of food and drink with you, but there are refreshment stops at
Newbridge on Wye, Llandrindod Wells, Hundred House, Gladestry &
Kington.
Day 4. Presteigne to Petchfield Farm. 15 or 22 miles
(24-35km). You have a choice about how to return to Petchfield Farm.
Either complete the Radnor Ring by cycling over Reeves Hill to Knighton
& return along the River Teme. Or opt for the gentler route via the
water meadows of The River Lugg. Stop for lunch at the renowned Riverside
Inn, or visit Wigmore Castle. Finishing any time in the afternoon, back at
Petchfield Farm.
© Wheely wonderful cycling
