This two-day journey links the quiet valleys and open ridgelines of the Black Mountains, climbing steadily to the top of Gospel Pass before descending into the literary town of Hay-on-Wye. Expect a long gradual climb, one short steep pitch near the summit, gentle undulations on day two, and plenty of quiet lanes with big views across the Welsh borders.
This is a self-guided route, with detailed navigation, full kit provision and backup support on hand should you need it.
The route climbs through forested valleys to reach Gospel Pass, Wales’ highest road, before dropping into Hay-on-Wye for an evening among bookshops, cafés and riverside walks. Day two follows quiet lanes beneath the Black Mountains and returns to Abergavenny via the towpath of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. The gradients are friendly for most of the journey, with one steep section on the approach to the pass.
Meals are at your own expense, with plenty of good options in Hay-on-Wye and along the route. Breakfast is included for B&B guests, while campers get Firepot porridge and hot drinks or can head into town. Lunch can be a packed option from Hay or a café/pub stop during the ride. For dinner, Hay-on-Wye has excellent pubs and restaurants, all within easy walking distance of both the B&B and campsite.
Graded Moderate, suitable for riders with reasonable cardiovascular fitness. Expect a long steady climb to Gospel Pass with one steeper ramp, plus a short steep descent on the far side. The rest of the route is smooth tarmac and gently rolling terrain, with 3–5 hours of riding each day.
If you’re not riding regularly, commuting by bike or adding a few spin classes will help build the steady climbing ability needed for Gospel Pass.
This route captures the best of the Black Mountains: quiet valleys, big viewpoints, the charm of Hay-on-Wye and the varied riding the region is known for. We take care of the kit, planning, logistics and support so you can focus on riding at your own pace and enjoying the landscapes, swim spots and small towns that make this journey so rewarding.
Pack light — everything travels on your bike. We provide a dry bag and a short video showing how to attach your kit.
The preferred option is the 4★ Swan at Hay Hotel, close to the centre and perfect for an evening stroll.
+ Less equipment to carry
+ A proper bed and hot shower
– Brief pause from wilderness immersion
– No campfire evenings
A spacious riverside field bordered by woodland, with hot showers, toilets and firepits available on request. It’s a 10-minute walk into Hay-on-Wye for cafés, pubs and shops.
+ Full outdoor experience
+ Opportunity for a firepit evening
- More kit to carry
- Camping regardless of weather
Yes. A big part of bikepacking is travelling self-sufficiently. Everything you need fits into the bikepacking bags provided. Stick to the kit list, pack light, and you’ll be surprised how straightforward it is.
Carrying your own kit is part of what makes bikepacking so rewarding. We could move your bags for you, but it would take away the sense of independence and dilute the adventure. The challenge is part of the appeal, and most riders finish feeling proud of what they’ve achieved.
We provide Temple Cycles gravel bikes with high-quality components. They’re quick on the road, comfortable over rougher sections, and purpose-built for the type of mixed-terrain riding our routes involve.
You choose between B&Bs or camping.
We strongly suggest using the kit we provide. It’s chosen specifically for its low weight and packability, ensuring everything fits onto your bike. Bulkier personal gear often won’t fit.
There’s no strict maximum, but if your group is larger than eight, please contact us before booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Exact details vary by route and will be emailed to you beforehand. As a general guideline, please arrive at the start point in your cycling gear and ready for your briefing and bike fitting at 10am.
About the centre
Abergavenny
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