Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth - via the Lon Cambria (Route 81)

[gavgav]

I am hoping to take on the challenge of riding from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth, in September, via the Route 81 Lon Cambria.

Has anyone else done this? Do you have any tips on the challenge, route, what to pack, etc, and also ideas on accommodation around Newtown area, with secure bike storage, for our overnight stop.

All contributions gratefully received!!

 

[gavgav]

Anyone?

 

[GrumpyGregry]

Done it? yes. several times, and bits of it dozens of times.

Challenge? It's hilly. Some of the drivers you meet can be, well, a bit mental frankly, and the odd log lorry might take your breath away. Especially if you encounter one when you're not expecting it. But it is a great ride. One of my fave's in fact.

Packing, it will be wet - it's Wales so it may be very wet. Layers is the way to go and a decent outer shell. Some of it is feels very remote so take the usual tools and spares as it can be a VERY long way to the next bike shop.

Accommodation - can't help, family house in the the area we bed down in. But I do know of others who have stayed here and thought well of it.

 

[gavgav]

Done it? yes. several times, and bits of it dozens of times.

Challenge? It's hilly. Some of the drivers you meet can be, well, a bit mental frankly, and the odd log lorry might take your breath away. Especially if you encounter one when you're not expecting it. But it is a great ride. One of my fave's in fact.

Packing, it will be wet - it's Wales so it may be very wet. Layers is the way to go and a decent outer shell. Some of it is feels very remote so take the usual tools and spares as it can be a VERY long way to the next bike shop.

Accommodation - can't help, family house in the the area we bed down in. But I do know of others who have stayed here and thought well of it.

Thanks Greg. Got a guide book on it this week and it certainly seems rather hilly, especially between Newtown and Aberyswyth. Our plan is to cycle from Shrewsbury to Newtown, then overnight stop in Newtown and the 2nd day cycle from Newtown to Aber. Do you think that is a realistic aim for fairly novice cyclists, i.e. comfortable 20 to 30 milers, but no more (apart from 1 of our group who is like Chris Hoy in comparison to the other 3 of us!!) or should we make it a 3 day trip?

 

[GrumpyGregry]

It is easily doable in two, I've done it in a day, but that is pushing it. It's just under 100 miles iirc? With about 2500 metres of climbing.....

Honestly? A tough call not knowing you capabilities. If inexperienced on bigger climbs, and these are real mountains don't forget, I would take your time and do it over three,days, might drive Chris Hoy mad but he can sprint to the top of the climb, roll back down and climb it again if he thinks it is all a bit too easy.

Two 50 miler days with the climbing involved.... there could be tears.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

(apart from 1 of our group who is like Chris Hoy in comparison to the other 3 of us!!)