GWAENYSGOR

PRESTATYN, DENBIGHSHIRE

Looming above Prestatyn is a sinister mound that conceals a brilliant climb. You begin the ascent on a road called Fforddlas, which branches off the A547. Rising gently, each metre of elevation you gain takes a little sting out of the ferocious tail that lies in wait: the left-hand turn on to Hillside. It will take your breath away. Resembling one of my favourite climbs, Riber in Matlock, the road twists skyward between the houses. And then you reach one of the toughest corners in Britain. The sign says it’s 33%, but I think that’s a conservative estimate; it’s incredibly steep at the apex and you’ll be in a world of pain up to the next savage corner. Oh, and the one after that. After that the slope begins to fade and the end is in sight – up past the small car park on your left is the true summit. Turn around here for some fantastic views out over the Irish Sea, if you make it that is.