BANNAU
BRYCHEINIOG
Bannau Brycheiniog (formerly Brecon Beacons National Park) covers 520 square miles of grassy, heather-clad moutains is a mountain biking adventure in every sense. The wild lofty tops offer stunning panoramic views across the whole of the national park from the Black Mountains in the east, to the lone Black Mountain on the edge of the western flanks.
The mountains have been shaped and farmed by man for nearly eight millennia, making it the adventure playground of today.
Our weekend kicks off in the deep sided valleys of the Black Mountains just north of Crickhowell. The area offers some of the wildest and most remote riding in Wales. Based out of Perth Y Pia Farmhouse, we ride north up the Grwyne Fechan Valley on a classic 45 km loop of the mountain range. Big climbs and long descents make this route a challenging proposition, but the effort is worth the reward with breathtaking views from both the valley floor, and from the lofty tops.
On Sunday morning we move westward to the Bannau Brycheiniog and the Gap route. A classic loop from Talybont on Usk, up the steady Brinore Tram Road to Pentwyn Reservoir before heading north for the 'Gap' between Cribyn and Fan y Big. The view is spectacular, and the descent is a boulder strewn adrenalin rush all the way down.
Finishing in Talybont, we wash and clean the bikes down in the new Bike Hub before having a beer and saying our farewells from the Star Inn.
Black Mountains & Bannau Brycheiniog Epic; Two days guided riding in and around the national park with a local, experienced and fully qualified guide. Two nights accommodation and all food included, just £275pp (£50 deposit to secure a place)