A journey Across South Wales
The Celtic Trail is one of Wales’ most iconic long-distance cycle routes, stretching across the entire breadth of South Wales—from the Severn Bridge in the east to St Davids on the Pembrokeshire coast in the west. Covering over 357 miles (575 km), this epic trail showcases the diversity of Welsh landscapes, culture, and heritage.
Route Overview
The Celtic Trail is made up of two interlinked National Cycle Network routes -
Route 4 – The coastal route, running from Chepstow to Fishguard, passing through Swansea, Llanelli, and Pembroke.
Route 47 – The inland route, connecting Newport to Fishguard via Pontypridd, Carmarthen, and the Preseli Hills.
Together, they form loops and links that allow cyclists to explore both the rugged coastline and the lush, hilly heartlands of Wales.
Highlights Along the Trail
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – Dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and panoramic sea views.
Carmarthenshire Countryside – Rolling hills, quiet lanes, and historic towns like Laugharne.
South Wales Valleys – Industrial heritage and scenic uplands.
Castles & Cathedrals – Including Pembroke Castle, Caerphilly Castle, and St Davids Cathedral.
Wildlife & Nature – Wetlands, coastal paths, and rural farmland teeming with biodiversity.
Trail Features
Traffic Free Sections - 43% of the route is traffic-free, ideal for families and leisure riders.
Surface Mix - 89% asphalt, with some unsealed firm and loose sections.
Accessibility - Suitable for a range of fitness levels, with options for bite-sized day rides or multi-day adventures.
Popular Traffic-Free Sections
Brunel Trail - Neyland Marina to Johnston (9 miles)
Swiss Valley Trail - Llanelli (11 miles)
Millennium Coastal Path - Llanelli (7 miles)
Three Parks Trail - Hengoed to Taff Bargoed (13 miles) – (connects directly to Merthyr Tydfil, offering access to the Heads of the Valleys Cycle Network and the Taff Trail - Route 8.)
Gowerton to Swansea Bay Bike Path - (5 miles)
Experience the Real Wales
Whether you're cycling past pastel-coloured houses in Tenby, exploring Dylan Thomas’ Laugharne, or winding through flower lined country lanes, the Celtic Trail offers a vivid and immersive experience of Welsh life—past and present.
'The Celtic Trail is a must for the cycle enthusiast and two-wheeled backpackers'. The Guardian
It takes approximately 30 hours to complete so it's recommended to take it in bite-size chunks.
You can view the recommended traffic-free sections at Sustrans (The National Cycle Network).
