SUNDAY MORNING RIDE TO GROSMONT

03.7.11

Sunday, 10:00, the weather was warming up and it was time to set off along the sunny lanes of Glascoed and Monkswood to take our near obligatory stop at Usk to stock up on provisions. After viewing some old mod scooters the ride was to take us out on the main road to Chainbridge where there was a major cycling time trial taking place. I was riding my trusty old Mercian Audax which gives a much smoother ride than the harsh aluminium Ribble. After a quick ride to Llanarth the climb up to Llantilio was taken with ease. The beautiful weather made the ride to Onen, on the quite quiet main, road really enjoyable. A short cut through the maze of lanes that make up this classic touring area of north Gwent got us lost for a while and arriving in Newcastle was a surprise, however we had not lost any time or gone out of our way. Skenfrith castle was our stop for lunch, by now it was very warm indeed, about 30 degrees is quite warm for  this area and the climb up toward Grosmont was endured in the sweltering Sun. The road swoops down to the Monnow river before climbing sharply up in to Grosmont, a quick look at the castle and the ride continued up Campston hill where dramatic views of  the Black Mountains were enjoyed. Maerdy, near Abergavenny, was a stopping point for a quick a cold drink before cycling along the main road to turn off at Llanellen to join the lanes again. The afternoon brought slightly cooler weather and an enjoyable ride through Croes Llanfair and Nantyderry was taken. Down Rumble street and back through Monkswood and Glascoed to finish along the old abandoned road from New Inn to Croesyceiliog....60 miles.

Click an image to see larger version.

BikeBrothers home