Sirhowy valley to Parc Cwm Darran

The route goes through the Sirhowy Valley country park until the end at which point it goes alongside the A472 with a steady climb for almost a mile. Then we cross the road and head towards the Hengoed viaduct. We don't go over it but under to join our main stretch of road riding. We follow this road to Pengam (just under 2 miles) and then it is back to traffic free again as we follow the Rhymney river north to skirt around Bargoed. We keep following the path and the river as we go to Deri and then on through Parc Cwm Darren until we reach the visitor centre where we will stop for refreshments.
After a brief stop, we head back the way we came - this time enjoying a mostly downhill ride.
The route is tarmac but there are occasional tree roots and bits of twigs on the surface so is ok for all bikes but wider tyres and some tread would be more comfortable.

This is a ride to check out the route for a potential future breeze ride. It is an out and back route that is mostly a gentle uphill gradient for most of the way out and then we can have an easy ride back.

About 80% of the route is going to be traffic free with the remainder on road but the road part looks quite quiet. The part through the Sirhowy Valley park is a pretty good surface but skinny road tyres might not be advisable.

We will stop at the visitor centre and cafe in Parc Cwm Darren

Please wear a helmet and bring along some money and a lock for the coffee stop. Also, it is a good idea to carry a spare tube just in case.

We never leave anyone behind