Pedal Power

22nd March 2014

Now that spring is almost upon us (the clocks go forward by one hour on 30^th March – put it in your diary!) and the weather is improving, you may be looking for a more outdoorsy way to spend your weekend in Cardiff.

A great option is to explore the Taff Trail – an off-road path that leads all the way from Cardiff to Brecon. It is called the Taff Trail because it follows the River Taff for most of the journey. The path is 55 miles (or 89 kilometres) long.

Download a detailed map of the trail here.

You can start exploring the Taff Trail from Cardiff Bay or Bute Park in the city centre. The first part of the Taff Trail is beautiful; winding through the park along the river and weir:

Soon, you come out into the Welsh countryside and arrive at a village called Tongwynlais. You can stock up on water and food here for the rest of the trail, which will take you past the stunning Castle Coch and some beautiful mountain scenery.

Castle Coch

Cefn Coed Viaduct

The great thing about the trail is that it goes past train stations at regular intervals, so you can go as far as you want and then catch a train back to Cardiff.

You can walk the trail, although cycling is much more efficient (and fun when you get to the big mountain hills!). You can hire bikes from a few places in Cardiff:

Cardiff Cycle Tours – Despenser Street (Riverside)
Pedal Power – Dogo Street (Pontcanna) or the Cardiff Bay Barrage

The staff at the bike hire shops will be more than happy to advise you on the trail. If you would like more information, you can visit www.tafftrail.org.uk. Also do not hesitate to ask for advice at the school.

Explore and enjoy!