Today was the third day in a row in Wales that had similar climbing and distance. My legs did not feel as good as yesterday, but I think I managed the day well.
We started with a climb literally right from the start. That helped to open up my legs and I was able to make good time to the next climb up to the highlands of the Yr Wyddfa Nature Reserve.
Even though I’m getting used to the windswept open spaces of the highlands, it’s still amazingly beautiful to ride through.
After a short descent I made a turn onto a narrow road and passed the Bryn Bras Castle, which was built in the early 1800s and used to provide accommodations.
After passing the castle I continued climbing and soon enough I reached a vista point that had a great view up the valley with the Yr Wyddfa (Snowden) peak on one side and the Llyn Padarn lake on the other. At the end of the valley, I could see the road climbing up to the Pen-y-Pass, which I would have to climb soon enough.
The Pen-y-Pass is a short climb (4 km), but it feels like a classic Alpine road, complete with a cafe at the top.
I made good time and soon enough I was at the top. After a short break I descended to the main road that joined up with the shorter route that some in our group took today.
The ride after lunch was pretty, and about the same as I’ve seen during most of my time in Wales. That is, lots of sheep, lovely small country roads and the occasional rustic village. Also, there were plenty of short climbs featuring steep pitches.
Soon enough, I reached Rhuthun and the Rhuthun Castle Hotel, and a well deserved post ride serving of soup and other savory snacks.
Tomorrow is a short ride to Liverpool, or more accurately the Wirral Peninsula, just across the River Mersey.
