Above the village of Govilon, the road known as “The Tumble” climbs the flank of the Blorenge through a series of steep ramps and exposed sections, earning its place as a benchmark Welsh climb through repeated appearances in the Tour of Britain.
A short but uneven climb
From Govilon, it’s 4.3 km for 300 m of elevation gain up to the Foxhunter car park, averaging close to 7% but hiding ramps of up to 20% through the middle section. The narrow, winding road offers little respite before reaching the summit plateau.
A Tour of Britain regular
The Tumble has featured as a categorized climb in the Tour of Britain on several occasions, its position late in certain stages making it a genuine turning point for the race. The Blorenge summit, at 559 m, opens up clear views over the Usk valley, the neighbouring Sugar Loaf, and, on a clear day, as far as the Black Mountains.
Getting the ride right
A lightweight windproof jacket is worth keeping within reach even on a fine day down below: the exposed Blorenge summit can turn foggy or windy fast, regardless of the weather at the foot of the climb.
When to go
April to October, avoiding days with strong winds forecast at altitude — the fully exposed summit section amplifies wind effects far more than the surrounding valleys.
Good to know
Abergavenny, a few kilometres away, offers a good choice of accommodation and makes a practical base for combining The Tumble with other Monmouthshire and Brecon Beacons climbs in the same trip.
