R & R is the fourth route I’ve created and in the spirit of all GOAT routes, it’s a true test of your gravel mettle. Expect big miles and massive elevation.
The route is effectively The FoD Plod and The Wye Valley Wander in one go with a little extra spice on top.
If you want a real challenge this is it. It’s stacked with offroad and is barely flat for any recovery. You’ll be climbing and descending all day long.
The reward for completing this monster ride is your name on the GOAT Wall of Fame and Strava Kudos forever!
Start & Finish
The published route starts at Pedalabikeway in the Forest of Dean but you can start and finish anywhere en-route as long as you complete it.
The Route
Distance: 133km (86 miles)
Elevation: 2150m(7053ft)
Riders face a loop of the forest roads among the Pedalabikeway trails first then after cutting through Berry Hill its a gravel treat around the back of Bracelands Campsite to Symonds Yat Vistors Centre. Take care on the descent to the River Wye from here. Drivers think its ok to take RV’s and SUV’s with trailers down a very narrow single track lane so expect queues. At the valley floor riders track the rivers’ edge southbound on NCN Route 483 to Monmouth.
At Monmouth, a short climb takes riders back into the trees on the disused railway line to Redbrook where riders cross the picturesque bridge and track the river again. After 2km riders bear right and begin the tough alpinesque climb out of the valley. At the summit a brief road section gives way to Trelleck Common for some lovely, quiet trails. It’s a sharp descent down to Llandogo and a brutally steep climb backup and then a fast descent again back down to the waters edge from The Narth. Back to Redbrook now to cross the river again to pickup a lengthy climb away from the valley floor again around the headland to Newland. It’s lumpy tarmac from here to Coleford then the fabulous Cinderford to Parkend link path. An awesome trail in it’s own right. From Parkend riders embark on a loop around Oakenhill Wood taking them north skirting Mallards Pike and popping them out at the foot of the steep St Whites Rd climb. From here it’s back into the trees descending to Dry Wood for more climbing and trails to Littledean. Out of the village riders cut right to tackle a very punchy Littledean Hill before another lengthy section of trails loses riders around the outskirts of Puddlebrook and Drybrook. After enjoying a well earned descent, at Harrow Hill its a short section of the A4136 and then a final loop around the heart of the Forest back to base and become a GOAT!
Need to Know
- Share your ride afterwards.
- Invite your mates. Tell everyone about the ride.
- Park considerately on the day.
- Always take your litter home.
- Be self-sufficient. Make sure you have the route, your phone, spares, food, drink, money.
- Shut any gates.
- Ride within your capabilities and the rules of the road.
- Be courteous to other trail users and share your space nicely. A bell is highly recommended.
- Remember it’s a ride not a race.
Gallery
