15 April 2007
Ride Report: Castell Coch – High Route
Leader: Sheila Johnson
 
Another sunny day but hazy and not too hot, ideal for cycling . Six 
of us set off from the start point, up the Taff Trail, and we were 
soon joined by another two taking the total to eight. The park was 
looking particularly nice with trees and flowers in bloom. The 
trail was particurlarly busy with cycle groups, runners and 
pedestrians which caused us to ponder an alternative way back for 
later.
 
We took the usual route to Tongwynlais and after that we followed 
a trail bypassing Taffs Well around the back of Castell Coch. There 
were some moderate and difficult climbs but these were balanced out 
by some rapid descents. The final descent leading to Castell Coch 
was very steep and over rough terrain. It was particularly 
challenging/exhilerating - definitely not for beginners. It was 
suggested that a more moderate route down to the Castle may exist. 
This could be investigated if the ride was to take place again.
 
The reward for all our efforts was cake, coffee, scones, 
ice-cream and other goodies at the Castell Coch coffee shop.
 
We decided to take an alternative route back instead of following 
the Taff Trail. It was an on-road route via Coryton and Llandaff 
North. The roads were fairly clear and down hill most of the way. 
It wasn’t long before we were back in the park,where we stopped 
to chat to two Sustrans employees who were raising awareness of 
Sustrans and taking donations.
 
Overall a great ride.
 
John McCrory