Magical mountain drive in the UK with some of the most stunning views
- UK Hidden Gems
- Dec 29, 2025
- 2 min read
While many people talk about the benefits of a winter walk to clear your head, sometimes a road trip feels like the better option.
There is a breathtaking mountain road in the UK that is ideal for a drive in December.
This place in Denbighshire, Wales, is a winding A road that slowly opens up to reveal wide valley views below.
Set between Llantysilio Mountain to the west and Cyrn y Brain to the east, the A542 takes drivers from Llangollen to Llandegla.
It is a popular route for motorcyclists and anyone wanting to enjoy views from 417 metres above sea level.
History and heritage website Llangollen.co.uk explains: "The Horseshoe Pass, known in Welsh as Bwlch yr Oernant, meaning pass of the cold stream, dates back to 1811 and was one of several turnpike roads."
It adds: "Before this road was built, the main route between Llangollen and Ruthin went through Pentredwr and was described by a traveller in 1808 as extremely steep and lasting for over a mile."
"The name is thought to come from the horseshoe shape the road makes around the valley. It climbs to 1,367 feet or 417 metres and can be closed during winter when snow falls."
When snow has not forced it to close, the pass makes for a stunning drive with several places to pull over and take in the view.
You will see evergreen trees, rolling green hills and skies that change colour throughout the day.
Until last year, the Ponderosa Cafe was a much loved stopping point along the route.
Sadly, the owners have since shut the cafe and put it up for sale after many years of welcoming travellers, especially motorcyclists.
North Wales Live reported that the site first had a small hut in the 1930s, followed by a proper cafe opening in the 1950s. Over time, the building was expanded several times.
The cafe closed in November 2024 for routine maintenance, but visitors were disappointed when the owners announced in March that they would not be reopening for now. They thanked both staff and customers for their support over the years.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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