Cycle Snowdonia

If you are inspired to get on your bike after the first UK stage of the Tour de France this summer and want to experience one of the country's most picturesque cycle paths, Wales is the place to go.

One of the principality's most-used routes, Lôn Eifion, has recently been reopened following improvements.

Located in north Wales, the route runs from the town of Caernarfon - a popular base for exploring Snowdonia - to the village of Bryncir in the south.

Known for its sea and mountain views, the 12 mile long Lôn Eifion is well signposted and passes through Caernarfon Bay, the Llyn Peninsula offering views of the island of Anglesey and Snowdonia on the way.

The surface has been upgraded from dust to tarmac, and is rated as an easy ride. Lôn Eifion is part of the Welsh National Cycle Route (Lôn Las Cymru).

For easy access to the route, Caernarfon offers lots of accommodation options, cycle hire and plenty to do and see.

The town is famous for its grand coastal fortress, Caernarfon Castle, which looks over the harbour and dates back to the 13th century.

The castle was built by King Edward I in his conquest over northern Wales and was the birthplace of his first-born son, an event that created the tradition of calling the first-born son of the King or Queen of England the Prince of Wales.

However, the town's history goes much further back, with its first inhabitants thought to date from Roman times. There are Roman remains that visitors can see, including the remains of the Roman military fort, Segontium, which has an accompanying museum.

As a market town Caernarfon also offers more than just historical attractions, with plenty of shops, eateries and impressive accommodation options available, including 18th-century farmhouses with views of Snowdonia.

For more information see www.visitwales.com

For online maps, showing places with cycle hire see www.sustrans.org.uk