Day Two: Machynlleth to Brecon

Overview

Traversing the wild and rugged heart of Wales.

Day Two begins with a long climb out of Machynlleth – take a moment to look in the rear view mirror for sweeping views of Eryri’s southern peaks. Upon reaching the top, you’ll descent onto the Elenydd plateau, never dropping below 400 feet in elevation for the rest of the day.

Remote and sparsely populated, the Elenydd or ‘Desert of Wales’ is one of Britain’s most inaccessible regions. Mile upon isolated mile of unrivalled isolation and natural beauty awaits. Crossing Britain’s longest river, the Severn, just outside Llanidloes, you’ll ride down the stunning Wye Valley for 25 undulating miles before leaving the river at Builth Wells.

After crossing the vast, wild Sennybridge Training Area, the third largest military training area in the United Kingdom, you’ll then sweep back towards the east towards Brecon, where your finish line awaits. Keep your eyes to the right for unspoilt views of the iconic Brecon Beacons and Pen Y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.