Gran Fondo

FULL DETAILS FOR ROUTE TO BE CONFIRMED

This June, we’ll be reversing all routes, turning descents into testing climbs and giving recent Dragon Slayer’s a whole new challenge to conquer. Alongside reversing the route in 2026, we’re bringing back the legendary King and Queen of the Mountain challenge, with Devil’s Elbow returning as a timed climb. You’ll also experience the same spectacular views the pro peloton will face during the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ, cresting Rhigos Mountain in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) along the route of Stage 3 from Welshpool  > Cardiff.

Race Director Difficulty Rating:  9.5/10

This is the most popular route on the Dragon Ride, and for good reason. It’s a tough day’s cycling coming in at 215km with just under 3350m of ascent.

Don’t be fooled, this may not be the hardest of the Dragon Ride routes, however, it is still a major challenge requiring high levels of fitness, strength, and fortitude. Anybody who manages to slay this beast has completed an amazing achievement.

You will tackle the following major climbs:

  • Sardis Hill - 3/10
  • Glynneath Hill - 6/10
  • Black Mountain - 7/10
  • Bwlch Cerrig Duon - 5/10
  • Bwlch Bryn-Rhudd - 5/10
  • Rhigos - 6/10 - Featuring in the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ
  • The Bwlch - 7/10