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Hengoed Viaduct to Taff Bargoed

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The ride, starting a few miles north of Caerphilly, climbs gently from Hengoed Viaduct through Nelson and Trelewis to the climbing centre at Taff Bargoed.

The mighty Hengoed Viaduct, spanning the Rhymney River, is celebrated with its magnificent ‘Wheel of Drams’ artwork.

For much of its length the trail runs parallel to an existing railway line on a specially built cyclepath. There are large areas of newly landscaped land, regenerated from old industrial workings. A short steep climb from Trelewis up a series of zig zags takes you past The Cascades, a dramatic water feature carrying the Bargoed Taff down the valley and beneath a handsome new footbridge over the river.

As you approach the climbing centre you pass a series of recently planted reed beds that have succeeded in reducing by 97% the iron ochre that previously stained the river red and caused severe problems to the aquatic wildlife. You will also pass a succession of signboards with details of the old coal seams that were worked in the valley.

There is a cafe at the climbing centre. It is easy to extend the ride either to the west through Quakers Yard to link to the Taff Trail or east from Hengoed to Wyllie and the start of the trail through Sirhowy Valley Country Park.