From the picturesque coast to the rugged Valleys, Bridgend County is home to some wonderfully diverse and exciting landscapes - little wonder, then, that this is such an amazing cycling destination for all ages.
Firstly, the newly renovated coastal track runs between two of the destination's most popular beaches - Sandy Bay and Rest Bay. Footways have been widened, new paving and bike racks installed as well as a number of signage and drainage improvements - all making it easier than ever to enjoy the coast by bike. Then there's Porthcawl Bike Hire who are now offering fatbiking tours out across the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes and beyond.
Head up to the Welsh Valleys and you'll find some wonderfully challenging mountain biking in the shape of the Darren Fawr trails. The short blue and black-graded trails can be combined to create a 6km loop - the route sees riders dropping through berms, steep bombholes and over technical rock features through a stunning natural quarry.
Section 4 of the National Cycle Network, which crosses South Wales, is known as the 'Celtic Trail'. This cuts a scenic path through Bridgend County Borough from Blackmill in the East to Pyle in the West. Passionate cyclists can then head out to explore Wales in both directions, either east to Newport or west all the way to Pembrokeshire!
One of the most scenic options is the 'Cefn Cribwr' route, which links the former ironworks at Tondu and Bedford Park, and runs through the heart of Parc Slip Nature Reserve with its abundance of wildlife including rare birds.
With all that in mind, there are a number of big cycling events taking place in Bridgend over the coming weeks and months:
- 16-17 June - Dragons Charity Bike Ride
- 18 June - L'etape de la Defonce Cycle Race
- 6 July - South West Regional BMX Race
- 11-12 July - Night Ride
Be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar for more information on upcoming events!