Gravel Shack

The Wayfarer is popular with adventurous cyclists, mountain bikers, and off-roaders. It takes you over a pass in the Berwyn Mountains via the Wayfarer Memorial Stone.

The route we chose of 50km, started in the village of Cynwyd dropping us quickly on the road into Corwen. If we’d had cash, this would have been a great stop for a quick coffee and possible second breakfast at a popular cafe.

To avoid the main road we switched to the other side of the valley and followed the river to the picturesque Carrog.

Then came the surprise of the route crossing back across the river over the historic A5 and climbing a single-track pathed road to the Ceiriog Forrest via the stunning Glyndyfrdwy valley.

We finally hit gravel at the top of the climb, reaching the edge of the forest before again hitting the black stuff and dropping down into the Ceiriog valley. We reached the halfway point in the distance taking a coffee at The Hand in Llanmaron, before takling the challenging pass.

Out of Llanmaron the road narrows as it ascends into a farm track becoming rougher and increasingly more challenging with each kilometre.

It first becomes challenging for gravel bikes, then on to what would be challenging for mountain bikes, before crossing areas that would be challenging for most 4WD vehicles. Be prepared for a couple of kilometers, walking or proper hiky biky.

At the top of the pass the memorial stone marks the top of the climb and a very weathered box serves for those that wish to pay their respect or leave a token.

The best bit of any climb is the descent and with views of both the Clwydians and over as far as the mountains of Snowdonia, the descent can’t fail to put a smile on your face.

Numerous gates to open and close give ample chances to catch your breath and take in the amazing views.

The descent weaves its way along rewarding farming trails before we once again reach the black stuff and the road descends increasingly steeply. Arriving at the junction it is only a few minute’s ride back to the finish.

Over all the route took us a leisurely 5 hours. Between the steep climbs, frequent photo stops and coffee at The Hand, we probably could have made it round in just over 4 hours. We did this route in October and were extremely lucky with the weather. It is quite exposed at the top of the hills and the pass. If you plan to do this route be prepared.