The Taff Trail, a 55 mile trail (88km), takes you from Brecon south to the waterfront at Cardiff Bay.
The trail is a mixture of rural and urban pathways that passes through villages and towns still displaying relics from their industrial past.
The Taff Trail is suitable for whom?
If you plan to complete the trail in one day, make sure to bring enough water and snacks, as well as a basic bike repair kit in case your bike gets damaged. Also, be prepared for wet weather if the Welsh climate turns bad. And, in an emergency, don’t forget a cell phone, cash and credit/debit card.
There are some short sections of road, but the majority of it is off-road. You’ll also find fire roads, gravel paths, and canals. It’s best to avoid slicks, especially when the trails are wet. A bell is also useful as the Taff trail is shared with cyclists, walkers and even the occasional horse rider.
The Taff Trail is a route that you can take.
This trail is very well marked, but some locals like to tamper with the signs in order to confuse trail users. If you are in doubt, the route guide was produced by Sustrans. They also maintain sections of trail and make them safer for cyclists. You can also purchase the Taff Trail Guide : Fully illustrated route planner, which includes a map. Buy on Amazon.
The trail begins in Brecon and passes through Llanfrynach, Pencelli and The Brecon Beacons. It then continues through Talybont Reservoir, Torpantau and Garwnant. This section is one of the most beautiful scenery, allowing you the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty and greenery of The Brecon Beacons. It passes through Pontsarn and the Cefn Coed Viaduct on its way to Merthyr.
There are many pubs, cafes and shops along the route where you can stop and rest, or grab a snack.
After leaving Merthyr, the route continues through Abercanaid, Pentrebach, Aberfan, Pontygwaith, Quakers Yard and Abercynon before arriving at Pontypridd. If you do not want to cycle the final stretch, there are frequent train services from Trefforest, Pontypridd and other stations on the line. You can take your bike on most trains, but there may be restrictions if you are going to an event in Cardiff. After Pontypridd you can continue to Penrhos, Taffs Well, Tongynlais, and finally Castell Coch. If you are feeling particularly energetic, you could even challenge yourself by cycling up the hill.
You can continue on to Radyr or Cardiff, but be sure to keep an eye out for Castell Coch. You’ll see Cardiff Castle and the Millennium Stadium as you approach Cardiff Bay. Then, follow the Taff River until you reach the end where you can take a well-deserved break.
How long does it takes to cycle along the Taff Trail?
The length of time it takes to cycle on the Taff Trail depends on your fitness and how many times you stop. A person of average fitness can easily complete the entire 55-mile (88km), 88km trail in one day. Keep cyclists would probably be able to do it in less than four hours.