The Cambrian 200km

Revived and reinvigorated The Cambrian Classic Audax returns, a stunning 210km ride into Mid-Wales and back.  A new start HQ in Leominster but otherwise unchanged route with controls at Llanidloes, Machynlleth and Llanidloes.  An arduous but breath-taking ride with stunning views of the Cambrian Mountains and reservoirs.  

Starting at 7:00am the route heads northwest on rural country lanes to Kingsland, then onwards on well maintained B-roads through Shobdon (familiar to Elenith riders) and Presteigne.  Shortly after this you’ll pass the site of the Battle of Bryn Glas http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Bryn_Glas , where there is a poignant stand of Wellingtonia planted to commemorate it on the hillside.  The route continues westwards to the first climb of the day onto Llanbister common.  Be careful of the slippery cattle grid on the descent!

After a quick burst of A-road, a left onto rural lanes takes the route over more undulating terrain as the scenery gets more spectacular towards the first control in Llanidloes.  

From here you continue to climb west finally getting majestic views of Llyn Clywedog reservoir, before taking the famous Dylife mountain road to a highest point of 509m at the Wynford Vaughan Thomas Memorial and viewpoint. Where on a good day there are commanding views of the Dovey valley and the mountains to the north.  From here it’s a 10km descent to Machynlleth, enjoy!

It is a “free control” in Machynlleth, therefore obtain a till receipt from anywhere in the town as proof of passage (ATM, Café, shop etc.).  There are several good cafes in the town centre, for a variety of tastes.  Please ensure your receipt has the correct date, time and location marked.

Now, turn around and retrace to Leominster! Yep, up that big climb you just freewheeled down! Good news though, after climbing onto Llanbister common for the second time it’s a gradual 30km downhill ride to the Arrivee.

See below for a downloadable route sheet and GPS file and follow this link to enter via PayPal or post, 

The Cambrian Event Details| Audax UK - The Long Distance Cyclists' Association