| 1. Starting at The Bear Public House head towards Abergavenny. After 50m take the first left (signposted to a carpark).
This is a long gradual climb out of Crickhowell with lovely views over the valley.Following this quiet rural road through lovely countryside you will soon discover signs for Llanthony Abbey follows those and they will take you to Stanton.
At Stanton turn left and follow the road for a number of miles to Llanthony Abbey, which has a pleasant cellar bar/coffee shop amid the picturesque ruins. After a cake and tea or something stronger there carry on climbing on the same road up a long and at times steep climb to "Lord Hereford's Knob" or "Tumpa".
The road is narrow and you may need to stop for on-coming traffic at times. The views from the top are breathtaking and worth the effort. A fast descent from the other side brings you into the charming town of Hay-on-Wye. You can stop here for a bite to eat or a browse around the famous bookshops.
Head out towards Brecon and then branch off just after Three Cocks towards Talgarth on a quiet bike lane. At Talgarth follow signs for Abergavenny (A40) on the A479. This is a busy road with fast moving traffic which rises steadily for about three to four miles before a long fast descent down to the junction with the A40.
Turn left at the junction towards Crickhowell which is about 2 miles away. There are plenty of decent pubs awaiting you at the finish of this ride which, on a nice day is a stunning ride. |