Marchlyn Mawr Dam Road: A Scenic Journey Through Wales' Heartland
Wales, europe
5.31 km
643 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're in Wales, exploring Snowdonia's stunning mountains, and you stumble upon this crazy little road leading up to Marchlyn Mawr Dam. This ain't your average Sunday drive, folks!
We're talking about a completely paved but seriously narrow ribbon of tarmac that climbs up to 643m (2,109ft) above sea level. It's one of the highest roads you'll find in Wales! Built back in the late '70s, this 5.31km (3.3 miles) climb from Deiniolen is no joke. It's got some seriously steep sections, with gradients hitting a whopping 12.6% in places – your legs will definitely feel it if you're cycling!
Starting at the foot of Elidir Fawr, you gain a massive 426 meters in elevation, averaging around 8%, as you wind your way up. Heads up, though: this road is owned by the local power company, and while cyclists are welcome to grind their gears all the way up, a gate keeps cars from reaching the top, with the final 2.89km (1.8 miles) being off-limits to private vehicles. But honestly, the views are worth the effort. Just plan ahead!
Where is it?
Marchlyn Mawr Dam Road: A Scenic Journey Through Wales' Heartland is located in Wales (europe). Coordinates: 53.5374, -2.0213
Road Details
- Country
- Wales
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 5.31 km
- Max Elevation
- 643 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 53.5374, -2.0213
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