With winding mountain passes, wild coastal roads, and centuries of history stitched into every stone wall and castle ruin, Wales is a motorcycling paradise. From the towering heights of Bwlch y Groes to the dragon-spined ridgelines of the Cambrian Mountains, it’s a destination that rewards riders with both thrills and soul-stirring scenery.
This guide, inspired by the epic Rebellion Road trip, brings together five of the best motorcycle routes in the country and pairs them with standout cultural stops, rider-friendly accommodation, and top-tier food. Whether you're chasing curves, castles, or cawl, add these routes to your next two-wheeled adventure.
The Welsh Super 10 – the highest roads in Wales
This exhilarating route is a badge of honour for riders. It links ten of the highest paved roads in Wales - each above 500m - including legendary passes like Bwlch y Groes (aka the 'Hellfire Pass') a 17-mile route through Dinas Mawddwy and Llanuwchllyn, and the Gospel Pass, a 22-mile route connecting Abergavenny and Hay-on-Wye.
Why ride it? You’ll conquer climbs that challenge both engine and ego, all while soaking in views across Eryri (Snowdonia), the Cambrian Mountains, and beyond.
Don’t miss:
- Bwlch y Groes – One of the highest tarmac roads open to traffic in Wales.
- Llyn Brianne Reservoir – Ideal for a lunch stop and photo opportunity.
Eat: Plas Yn Dre, Bala – A hotel restaurant serving Welsh lamb with a warm welcome.
Stay: Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa – 4* hotel, bike-friendly with stunning scenic views.
Top tip: Take your time on the descents. Some are narrow, steep, and frequented by sheep. Ride safe, ride smart.
The Mid Wales Loop – 140 miles of unspoilt beauty
This loop through the heart of Mid Wales delivers epic riding on quiet roads through the Elan Valley, the Cambrian Mountains, and back through Rhayader and Llandrindod Wells.
Why ride it? It’s a perfect mix of flowing curves, vast open landscapes, and old-world charm.
Don’t miss:
- Claerwen Reservoir – Remote, peaceful, and ideal for reflection.
- Rhayader – A historic market town and a great refuelling stop.
Eat: The Triangle Inn, Rhayader – Hearty pub fare with a roaring fire.
Stay: Elan Valley Lodge – Great for groups, with secure bike storage.
Top tip: Fuel stations can be sparse, so top up in towns like Rhayader or Llandovery.
The Spine of the Dragon – a North-South odyssey
Stretching from the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) to the peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia), the Spine of the Dragon route offers a comprehensive slice of Wales. Designed to test your skills and stamina, it traverses rugged terrain and rewarding views.
Why ride it: It’s the closest thing to a 'Welsh Route 66'—a spine-tingling journey through the nation’s wild core.
Don’t miss:
- Devil’s Staircase – A brutal zigzag climb near Abergwesyn.
- Machynlleth – A cultural gem known as the 'ancient capital of Wales'.
Eat: The Red Lion, Machynlleth – Local beer with great atmosphere.
Stay: Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis – A classic base near Yr Wyddfa.
Top tip: Pack gear for all seasons. Wales can serve up all four in a day.
The Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) Explorer – myths and mountains
One of the most rewarding historical motorcycle tours in Wales, this route weaves through the mystical Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). Expect sweeping roads, sheep-dotted valleys, and Celtic legend at every turn.
Why ride it? From mountain passes to ancient castles, this route is where scenery and storytelling meet.
Don’t miss:
- Gospel Pass – Wales’ highest public road, with epic views of the Black Mountains.
- Brecon Cathedral – A quiet stop to soak in Welsh spiritual heritage.
Eat: Hills, Brecon – Arguably Wales’ best burger!
Stay: The Felin Fach Griffin – Biker-friendly, stylish, and full of character.
Top tip: Watch for sudden weather changes in Bannau Brycheiniog. Good tyres and visibility are essential.
Snowdonia Loop – 200 miles of mountain majesty
If you only do one ride in North Wales, make it this one. This loop tours scenic motorcycle rides in Wales’ most iconic National Park, passing peaks, lakes, and ancient slate towns.
Why ride it? Eryri (Snowdonia) combines mountain drama with smooth, rider-friendly roads. It’s about as close as the UK gets to the Alps.
Don’t miss:
- Llanberis Pass – A sweeping, high-speed climb between craggy peaks.
- Beddgelert – A postcard-perfect village with a legendary backstory. Beddgelert means "Gelert’s Grave", named after a legendary dog buried there by Prince Llywelyn in a tale of loyalty and loss.
Eat: Lone Tree Cafe, Llanberis –A welcoming café serving hearty breakfasts and lunches
Stay: Bryntyrch Inn, Capel Curig – Mountain views and big portions await.
Top tip: Avoid peak times for a traffic-free lap. Dawn and dusk rides here are unforgettable.
Ride safe, ride smart
Wales offers some of the UK’s most engaging motorcycle touring - but safety should always come first:
- Gear up: Always wear a full set of CE-rated riding gear. Weather can change quickly.
- Be alert: Watch for livestock, gravel, and wet road markings—especially on rural lanes.
- Respect local limits: Welsh roads can tempt you—but always ride within your limits and the law.
Whether you're inspired by the cinematic Rebellion Road trip or charting your own course through the valleys, motorcycling in Wales is more than just a ride - it’s an experience. From history-steeped towns to wild moorlands and coastlines, these routes show off the best of Welsh culture and motorcycling.
So prep the panniers, load the GPX files, and get ready to discover why Wales motorcycle routes belong at the top of every adventure rider’s list.
