GOSPEL PASS

HAY-ON-WYE, POWYS

The toughest climbing on the Gospel Pass comes at the bottom, hidden amongst the trees of Tack Wood. I liken this climb to getting the housework done before you’re allowed out to ride – drag your bike and body through the tough lower slopes, put in the hard graft, and you’ll be rewarded with amazing vistas and a much easier ride to the summit. Begin 4 kilometres south of Hay-on-Wye at a small triangular junction and follow the road round to the right as it begins its ascent into the woods ahead. It’s a narrow and well-surfaced road, snaking left and right, and significantly steep in places. Over the final punishing rise of the bottom section, riding away from the last of the trees, the scenery opens up and you’ll see the path winding into the distance. There’s still a long way to go though, and at the finish, just to remind you it’s a proper hill, the last few bends ramp up for one final test.