Powys is a large county whose slow winding roads may frustrate motorists but can delight cyclists.
The 14-mile Montgomery Canal, from Welshpool to Newtown, is one of the most beautiful stretches of waterway in Wales, and the newly opened towpath trail along it which links Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury is great for family cycling.
Lôn Las Cymru, the Welsh top-to-bottom cycle route whose 250 miles gives a thrilling overview of the country, runs through Machynlleth on a wonderful stretch of road through Corris and on to Dogellau.
West of Rhayader the NCN81 runs off NCN8 alongside reservoirs in the Elan Valley.
More child-friendly canal cycling is on the Monmouth and Brecon canal south of Brecon.
Several miles of towpath offer the unusual combination of flat riding and outstanding hill and mountain scenery.
Llandrindod Wells, in the middle of county, is home to a major bike museum, the National Cycle Collection. It houses over 250 bikes, covering the 150-year history of pedal cycling.
Here is a selection of top cycle routes in Powys that you might want to get out and try.
Rhayader – The Elan Valley Trail Loop from Llanwrthwl
Elan Valley. Picture: Geograph.
An expert ride of 26.8 miles on mostly paved surfaces.
Starting at Penbont Tea Room and taking in the Elan Valley Reservoir and Craig Goch Dam before ending at Elan Dam.
Lake Vyrnwy Circular Loop from B4393
Lake Vyrnwy. Picture: Geograph.
An intermediate ride of 18 miles and suitable for all skill levels. Starting at Llanwddyn car park and along Llyn Llanwddyn to Lake Vyrnwy.
Lake to Lake – Bala Lake Loop from Llanwddyn
The Vyrnwy Valley from Llanwddyn. Picture: Geograph.
A challenging 32 mile ride which begins at Llanwddyn car park and winds north along Llyn Llanwddyn to Bala Lake before returning on mountain roads with stunning views.
The Elan Valley Trail – The River Wye Loop from Llangurig
Llangurig. Picture: Geograph.
Good fitness is required for this 51 mile trek which begins at the Black Lion Hotel and proceeds through a stretch of forest after a steep climb from Llangurig and to Elan Valley and onto Rhayader before returning to the starting point.
Montgomery Canal
Montgomery Canal. Picture: Geograph.
Starting in Newtown you follow the River Severn towards Llanllwchaiarn and the start of the canal. You then follow the towpath north passing the Pwll Penarth Nature Reserve and a series of pretty villages including Abermule and Berriew where the canal is carried over the River Rhiw aqueduct.
The route continues to Welshpool passing Powis Castle and the Llyn Coed y Dinas Nature Reserve. It's a super section of the canal with wildlife such as otters and water voles to look out for.
From Welshpool you continue north to Arddleen and Four Crosses where you cross the Vyrnwy Aqueduct. It's a highlight of the route with splendid views of the River Vyrnwy to enjoy.
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