Cardiff to W Midlands Route

NB!! Uses cycle way through Symonds Yat that's ok if taken with care on a road bike as long as it's dry.  I make NO warranties that your best bike won't get chipped or it's wheels as it is a looser surface!  If you don't want to take this route there are several on-road routes over through the forest to Ross on Wye.

Can be used as basis to get anywhere in the W. Midlands from S. Wales without using the A449 excessively, at least the busiest dualled sections.

I did this at Easter this year.  First solo century, in fact first century ride full stop :)  Now I've mapped it on here and got the ascent figures I realise why it was hard and just how it compares to other rides I've done with the club recently.  There aren't so many big climbs on this route, a spicy one for good measure before Monmouth that can be avoided.  You can add one in over the forest but be warned the A449 from Ross to Ledbury will sap you.  It has quite a climb and undulates!  It certainly had me in trouble as at Easter it was warmer than expected and I hadn't enough salt intake...  Cycles Clements get a big-up for providing tea and bickies in Ledbury to revive!