Moorlands and Mountains

Situated within 60 minutes of Chester on the borders of three counties (Denbighshire, Conwy and Gwynedd) this route explores the remote hill-farming countryside to the north east of Lake Bala.

Ride the open uplands of the Mwdwl Eithin moors, swing south into the Dee Valley, climb up into the Berwyn Mountains, one of the largest open spaces in Wales, before returning north, having passed spectacular upland wetlands on Mynydd Mynyllod. The route follows seldom-used tarmac lanes, off-road bridleways and heather-clad mountain paths. These range from a few sections of grassy open pasture to occasionally rough and stony farmers' tracks. Careful map-reading skills are required to avoid a section of wet moorland and there are several inconvenient gates. There are very few flat sections along this route; the uphill climbs can be long and the gradients can be steep but you will be rewarded by some unforgettable 360° mountain viewsso you and your horse need tobe able to cope, if you are unsure please speak to Deborah who will explain.The incredible peace and tranquillity of this ride, and the feeling of exhilaration on completing these tougher sections, are worth all your effort. The route can be extended further into the Berwyn Mountains to cater for the most demanding endurance rider with daily rides of 35 to 40 miles.

Accommodation is provided in cosy farmhouses on working farms, welcoming country houses in local villages or at friendly pubs where the locals will delight in sharing a pint with you.

You and your horse must be fit to cover this sort of mileage, please speak to Deborah who will explain in more detail about this route.

(posted/updated 16/02/2010)