Powys is a large county whose slow winding roads may frustrate motorists but can delight cyclists.
The 14-mile Montgomery Canal, from Welshpool to Newtown, is one of the most beautiful stretches of waterway in Wales, and the newly opened towpath trail along it which links Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury is great for family cycling.
Lôn Las Cymru, the Welsh top-to-bottom cycle route whose 250 miles gives a thrilling overview of the country, runs through Machynlleth on a wonderful stretch of road through Corris and on to Dogellau.
West of Rhayader the NCN81 runs off NCN8 alongside reservoirs in the Elan Valley.