Cycling is one of the easiest ways to get fitter, and Eryri (Snowdonia) is one of the best places in Britain to do it. You can potter along a flat old railway line by an estuary, grind up a mountain pass, or throw yourself down a trail centre descent. Here are ten good reasons to get on your bike, with a route in Eryri to match each level. Our cycling in Eryri guide has more routes.
10 benefits of cycling
1. It is good for your mental health
Exercise outdoors is widely linked to better mood and lower stress. A ride on your own gives you thinking time; a ride with friends is a social outlet as well.
2. It helps with weight management
Cycling burns calories, and the harder or longer you ride, the more you burn. Combined with a sensible diet, regular riding helps you manage your weight. Riding to work is an easy way to fit it in; see cycling to work around Eryri.
3. It builds leg strength
Pedalling works your quads, hamstrings, calves and glutes. Climbing hills, of which Eryri has plenty, builds strength quickly.
4. It is good for your heart
Cycling raises your heart rate and improves cardiovascular fitness. The NHS recommends adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, and cycling is one of the activities it lists.
5. It lowers the risk of serious illness
Regular physical activity reduces the risk of major conditions including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
6. It is low impact
Unlike running, cycling is not weight-bearing, so it is gentler on knees and ankles. That makes it a good option if you are coming back from injury or carrying extra weight. A bike that fits you properly makes a big difference to comfort and injury risk, so it is worth getting advice from a specialist mountain bike shop in North Wales.
7. It can help you sleep
Regular exercise is associated with better sleep quality, and a day out in the fresh air on a bike is a reliable way to earn a good night’s rest.
8. It is good for your brain
Regular aerobic exercise has been linked to better brain health and a lower risk of cognitive decline as we age.
9. It may help your immune system
Research has suggested that people who exercise regularly catch fewer colds and other upper respiratory infections than those who are inactive.
10. It grows your social circle
Joining a cycling club or group ride is a great way to meet people, and clubs are full of advice on routes, kit and maintenance.
Eryri routes for every fitness level
Easy: flat trails
- The Mawddach Trail: about 9 miles (15 km) of flat, traffic-free former railway line from Dolgellau to Barmouth, along one of the loveliest estuaries in Wales. Finish by crossing Barmouth Bridge.
- Llyn Padarn, Llanberis: lakeside paths and quiet lanes around the village make for a gentle ride with big mountain views.
Moderate: valley rides
- Lôn Las Ogwen: around 11 miles (18 km) one way from Porth Penrhyn near Bangor up to Ogwen Cottage, mostly on old railway trackbed and quiet lanes, with a climb of roughly 210 metres after Tregarth. At the top you can walk up to Cwm Idwal.
Challenging: mountain roads and trail centres
- The Llanberis Pass: the climb from Llanberis to Pen y Pass is a classic road ride, and our guide to road cycling in Snowdonia covers it and the other big passes. Go early, as the road is busy in summer, and see our parking and transport guide if you plan to drive to the start.
- Coed y Brenin, near Dolgellau: the trail centre that started it all in Britain, with waymarked mountain bike trails for a range of abilities. See our guide to mountain biking in Snowdonia for trail grades and current facilities.
- Gwydir Forest, Betws-y-Coed: forest trails above the village. See our Betws-y-Coed guide.
- Antur Stiniog, Blaenau Ffestiniog: uplift-served downhill trails for experienced riders. Read our guide to downhill biking in Eryri.
Want to turn these routes into a progression, from a first flat ride to a mountain climb? Our step-by-step plan for getting fit by bike shows how to build up week by week.
Whatever you ride, wear a helmet, carry a puncture kit, waterproof and snacks, and check the weather. For winter and wet-weather riding, see year-round cycling in Eryri. The Welsh for bicycle is “beic”, easy to remember, and “seiclo” is cycling.
FAQs
What is the easiest cycle route in Eryri?
The Mawddach Trail from Dolgellau to Barmouth is flat, traffic-free and suitable for families.
Can I cycle up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)?
Some paths are bridleways, but a voluntary agreement asks cyclists to avoid them during the busiest hours in summer. Our mountain biking guide sets out the agreement in full; always give way to walkers.
How much cycling do I need to do to feel the benefits?
NHS guidance for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Two or three rides a week, or a short daily ride to work, gets most people there.
Is an e-bike a good idea in Eryri?
Yes, e-bikes make the hills far more manageable, and our guide for beginners, bike hire and e-bikes has more. Check the battery range against your route before setting out.
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