| 1. The concept of the Lleyn Peninsular Tour is to go from Porthmadoc to Caernarfon keeping as close as possible to the coastline but avoiding as much as possible main roads and excessive climbs and taking in as many places of interest as possible. The idea is to do it in easy stages using public transport to return to the starting point each time. Although In most cases bikes can't be carried on public transport so it is necessary to carry a lock to secure bikes at the end of the route, return to base on public transport to pick up the car then drive to collect the bikes. a bit of a faff but it facilitates a good tour. Of course the more ambitious can string stages together or do it all in one day if you're really psyched! It would be possible to complete the circuit by adding an extra stage of Caernarfon to Porthmadog, which includes a good purpose made bike track but I've not included that as its not coastal.
Stage 1 uses the train to return. http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ for times.
Route Description:
Not described in detail - follow the map.
Points of note:
1.Just beyond Morfa Bychan is Black Rock Sands - a long firm sand beach which vehicles can drive on (charge). A great place to stop for a sunbathe or swim (but a bit early in the ride)
2. After doubling back on a track you climb onto the cliffs and pass a farm. Follow the track downhill. The route then crosses a field to meet the railway. This section is a footpath, not a bridelway so be prepared to walk and push. the route then follows a path at the side of the railway to the edge of Criccieth.
3. Cadwaladers Ice Cream shop in Criccieth is worth a stop. Watch out for it on the left - you'll be going slow!
4. Criccieth Castle is worth a visit if you have time.
5. The next village, Llanystumdwy, is the birthplace of Lloyd George - last Liberal Prime Minister (1916 - 1922). You will ride past the Memorial Museum.
6. The rest of the route follows pleasant quiet country lanes through a couple of villages of little note - Chwilog and Abererch befor earriving in Pwllheli where a well earned cup of tea and cake are readily available while waiting for the train.
NB. Due to damage to the train line in the storms of winter 2013-2014 the train service is currently replaced by a bus service indefinitely (May 2014) |