QUEEN STAGE: WELSH VALLEYS
Overview
Ride one of the best regions for cycling in the UK with climbs of all shapes & sizes in the glorious Welsh Valleys.
Our route takes in the classic climbs of the region with long ascents (7km at 3.5%) and punchy ascents (1.3km at 10.1%). Take on these stunning roads and get a taste of what the pros will ride on stage 3 of the 2027 TdF.
- Five epic climbs in the Welsh Valleys including Rhigos & the super punchy Cote de Penrhys.
- Ride parts of the Tour before the pros. We take in 60km of the 2027 Tour 3rd stage.
- Make a weekend of it with camping available on Sat & Sun night
Included in Entry
Route Details
Long Route
Starting out in Walter's Arena by the beautiful Afan Forest, we head west for one of the classic climbs in the area - Black Mountain (5.3km at 6%).
From here, we ride the rolling back roads of Brecon Beacons with stunning views in all directions.
We then get onto the 2027 TdF route for the business end of the ride. Straight away we have a long drag up the Cote de Bannau Brycheinog (6.6km) before descending to Rhigos (2.8km) and straight onto Penrhys & the Cote de Maerdy - two shorter but steep climbs which could be decisive next July.
After this we roll back 20km to the finish with one final sharp climb to get up before a much deserved beer.
Medium route
The medium route splits from the long route after just 9km and custs 34km and one major climb off the course.
Instead of doing Black Mountain, you will head towards Brecon & the TdF route via the delightful Pen-y-Cae (7km at 2.6&) before rejoining the long route for the final 90km.
Key Climbs
Black Mountain
One of THE climbs in the area. Black Mountain from the south is long but very consistent so its a nice climb to find your rhythm and tap your way up enjoying the views on the way.
Cote de Bannau Brycheinog
The first of our TdF climbs and this is a long drag up a wide road from Brecon.
Ideally, find a group and stay in the big ring & prepare for punchier climbs coming soon.
Cote de Rhigos
Another classic South Wales climb. This is fairly long and steeper on the first half with gradients jumping between 5 and 9% before it levels off as you get to the hairpins near the top.
Cote de Penrhys
Different to the long, steady climbs we've had before this could be the decisive climb in the TdF next year.
The first 300m avg about 6% and the final kilometre is super sharp and will definitely hurt coming 115km into this ride.
Cote de Maerdy
You have a climb to get to the climb in a stretch of the route that will feel TOUGH.
From the town of Maerdy, this is similar to Penrhys with a short, steady start and then 1km at over 10%. Luckily, you do have a descent to catch your breathe before any harder riding after this.
Event Program
Off the bike
Make a weekend of it with a beautiful gravel sportive in Afan Forest from our sister brand Glorious Gravel.
This is a very picturesque corner of South Wales with lots of great hiking, gravel riding & MTB. Enjoy:
- Mountain biking in Afan Forest
- One of the UK's best zip wires
- Tons of excellent hiking trails (see more here)
- For nightlife, we are only 30 mins from Swansea or 1hr from Cardiff
- For beach lovers, head to the Gower Peninsula for some of the best sandy beaches in the UK.
Checklist for the ride
Make sure you bring the following essentials:
- We recommend getting your bike checked or serviced a couple of weeks before the ride.
- We will send out a tyre guide from Michelin so you know how to setup for the route.
- Our rides go into remote areas so ensure you are self-sufficient with tools / spares for basic roadside repairs & layers if you are stuck by the side of the road
- A personal medical kit including foil blanket is recommended
- Even though the route is fully marked, we ask all riders to have the GPX (we send these out a few days before the ride) on your bike GPS.
- This is not a race so come to enjoy the journey and the company of your fellow riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Food is Served at the Feed Stops
At all feed stops you will find bananas, waffles, g/f options, gels, bars & water. At most feeds you will also find tea & coffee. At the main (lunch) feed stop, we also have sandwiches & crisps with options for g/f and vegans.
Is There a Minumum Age
No but anyone under 18 needs to be accompanied by an adult at all times.
What Happens if I Can't Make the Ride After I've Booked?
Let us know within one week of the ride and we can transfer your entry to any other 2026 ride.
Where Does the Ride Start / Finish?
This ride starts & finishes at Walters Arena near Afan Forest. At the ride village there is a mechanic, cafe & beer at the finish.
Are E-Bikes Allowed?
Yes, our events are open to E-Bikes. provided they are allowed in the UK. Time trial bars are not allowed.
Is There a Cut Off Time
The ride starts at 8am and you need to be back at the finish for 6pm so you need to be able to avg at least 15km/h