Taff Trail - Cardiff to Brecon

This section of the Taff Trail travels between Cardiff and Brecon

The Taff Trail runs for 55 miles between Cardiff and Brecon along a mixture of riverside paths, railway paths and forest roads.

Due to the range of path surface types, a sturdier cycle is recommended for some sections of this route. These include a short section from Quakers Yard to Pontygwaith and from Pentwyn Reservoir to Talybont Reservoir.

Just a short ride away you're transported from cosmopolitan Cardiff to rural heaven. Firstly, cycle eight gentle miles of the Taff corridor to a land of crashing weirs rich with wildlife, impressive mountain backdrops and a fairy tale castle called Castell Coch (Red Castle).

On the trail there is plenty of opportunity to stop and picnic before arriving at the industrial heritage town of Pontypridd, the birthplace of singing legend Tom Jones, where you will find a museum, distinctive old bridge and Ynysangharad Memorial Park.

From here the route branches out to other pathways such as the Celtic Trail, with plenty of attractions including the Rhondda Heritage Park at Trehafod where you step back to another time and experience life underground at the Lewis Merthyr Colliery with the help of a former miner guide. 

Back on track, head for Merthyr Tydfil, a town built on iron and coal, and home to the magnificent Cyfarthfa Castle.

Stop off to visit the Castle's museum and art gallery before making your way to Brecon through dramatic mountain landscapes, past crashing waterfalls and crystal clear reservoirs before arriving in Brecon - home to a Cathedral and dotted with watering holes and quaint shops.

Climb steadily up the Torpantau Pass and discover the old Merthyr Railway before ending up in the idyllic countryside in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

Please help us protect this route

The Taff Trail is part of the National Cycle Network, cared for by Sustrans. Your donation today will help keep the Network safe and open for everyone to enjoy.

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