The 7th in a series of 9 caches including a bonus cache,
specifcally intended to be completed while cycling. Each cache is
placed roughly a mile apart.
The difficulty / terrain ratings, and attributes are for the
series as a whole, if completing only 1 or 2 caches, the ratings
would be 2/1.5
If parking at the given coordinates, cross the road and follow the
sign that says trains. Once through the wall, go through the wooden
gates that cross the tracks and then turn left. When crossing the tracks look out for the train, it should be
safe as this crossing is at the very end of the track, and the
train stops slightly further up at Blaenavon High Level station,
but still be careful.
This series of caches can be completed individually, or as
a series, with each cache containing a clue to reveal the
coordinates of the bonus #9 cache. While the series is intended to
be completed by bike, it is not necessary. It is feasible to walk
this distance although it would take considerably longer. The route
is buggy and dog friendly, (and even horse friendly except #'s 8
and 9)
This cache is a small (film cannister, containing a log
book but please, BYOP. It is situated just off the cycle path but
no fences or stiles need to be crossed to access the cache
site.
This route follows the National Cycle Route 492, although
it used to be numbered 46, and 49 respectively, so all three sign
numbers are visible en route. It follows the path of the disused
railway line linking pontypool to the World Heritage Site at
Blaenavon, passed Big Pit Mining Museum and the modern day
Pontypool to Blaenavon Railway, ending in the scenic Garn Lakes.
The path climbs steadily over its 9 mile length, gaining over 650ft
(200m), but passes through lovely broadleaf woodland and offers
spectacular views east across the valley of the Afon Llwyd. The
cycle track is completely traffic free, crossing only 2 or 3 fairly
quiet roads that are easily crossed safely. Suitably the route
finishes at the Whistle public house (famed for its collection of
miners lamps), which is suitable for all the family, including a
play area for younger children.
Blaenavon played a significant part in the development of
the Industrial Revolution during the 19th century when the town
became the home of mine owners, managers and workers of the
ironworks and Big Pit Colliery. Today the town contains 17 listed
buildings, including Blaenavon Ironworks, One of the best preserved
examples of 18th century ironworks in Western Europe. You can also
visit the Big Pit Mining Museum where visitors can experience going
underground in a real colliery. Or perhaps you would prefer a more
relaxing trip on the railway which boasts the highest preserved
standard-gauge line in the United Kingdom, and also uniquely having
the only standard-gauge rail-over-rail bridge within
preservation.
Click
here for more information.
Lastly, Please be respectful of the environment and take
any litter home, and tidy up after your pets.