Abergwesyn Mountain Pass
Wales
Wales's finest mountain road, the Abergwesyn Pass climbs from Tregaron through hairpin bends known as the Devil's Staircase to staggering views over the Cambrian Mountains. Short but intense: forest, valley, lake, and moorland in a route that rewards anyone willing to leave the A-roads behind.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Tregaron
A Welsh-speaking market town with a statue of Twm Sion Cati, the Welsh Robin Hood. Cors Caron raised bog on the outskirts is one of Wales's finest nature reserves.
- Llyn Brianne
A remote reservoir in the upper Tywi valley ringed by kite forest. Wales has the densest red kite population in the world; the dam wall is a dramatic viewpoint.
- Devil's Staircase
The notorious hairpin sequence on the Abergwesyn Pass, single-track with passing places, rewarding drivers with vertiginous views across the empty Cambrian moorland.
- Llanwrtyd Wells
Britain's smallest town at the eastern foot of the pass, famous for the World Bog Snorkelling Championship and Victorian sulphur wells. A perfect eccentric endpoint.
Where to Eat
- Y TalbotWelsh
Historic 17th-century inn offering traditional Welsh dishes in a cozy setting.
- The Neuadd Arms HotelBritish
Charming hotel restaurant known for its hearty British fare and local ales.
- The Drovers RestPub
Traditional pub serving classic meals with a selection of local beers.
Things to Do
- Cambrian MountainsHike
Explore rugged trails with panoramic views of unspoiled Welsh countryside.
- Llanwrtyd Wells Heritage and Arts CentreMuseum
Discover local history and art exhibits in a former chapel setting.
- Red Kite Feeding StationNature
Observe majestic red kites up close during daily feeding sessions.
Travel advisory
The Abergwesyn Pass features steep gradients, tight hairpin bends, and single-track sections with infrequent passing places. It is unsuitable for caravans, large motorhomes, or nervous drivers. Take care on blind corners and expect sheep on the road.