| 1. A very scenic ride with views over rivers and lakes. Not too many hills as it mainly follows lakes and river valleys.
From Dolgellau take the main road (A494) to Bala. This road follows the river valley of the Afon Wnion to southern end of Lake Bala. The A494 follows the lake shore. There is a cycle path along here and at the north end of the lake a grassy picnic area and cafe. Worth a rest/visit to watch wind surfing and other water activities. Also plenty of places to eat/drink in Bala town.
Continue north thru Bala to take rt turn (and climb) on the A4212 which follows the Afon Trywern. Continue to the White Water Centre (Canolfan Trywern). Free entry and well worth a visit if only to watch the exciting kayak/rafting activities. Also a cafe here!
You can continue past centre to the large lake (and dam) which feeds the Afon Trywern.
Next return to Bala, go lft (north) onto the A494 for a short way, then rt onto the B4401 signposted Llandderfel. This road follows the River Dee, passing over a many arched and very old bridge. Shortly you come to a 4 way junction by a pub (the Brynterion Inn, nice evening meals!), here go sharp rt onto B4402, keeping Pale Hall on your right. Continue to T junction, going rt to join the B4391 and this road now on the other side of the River Dee leads back to Lake Bala.
Here at the north eastern end of the lake is the Bala Lake Railway. You could take the train along the lake to Llanuwchllyn or go by road along the B4403. Continuing thru Llanuwchllyn you will come back to the main A494. Go lft and follow it back to Dolgellau. |