Walk through the Welsh forest
A quiet loop through one of Wales's most beautiful valleys, turned into a walking challenge you complete with your everyday steps.
The Afan Vale Loop is a 23.5 km circuit through the Afan Valley in South Wales, known for its dense forest trails, mountain biking, and the River Afan that winds through the valley floor. The route passes across the 1890s Afan High Bridge — a Victorian iron viaduct suspended above the river gorge — and climbs through the Pelenna ridge before looping back beneath larch canopies.
With Zelus, you follow the actual forest tracks on a live map. Your daily steps carry you from the Afan Forest visitor centre, across the High Bridge, and back through regenerating woodland to close the loop. Three milestones mark the start, the bridge crossing, and the finish.
3 milestones along the way
Each milestone marks a real point on the Afan Vale Loop. Unlock them as your daily steps add up.
Begin beside the visitor hub where Afan's bike park meets the valley floor. The forest opens up around you as the trail heads south along the river.
Stride across the 1890s iron viaduct suspended above the River Afan gorge. The bridge has connected the valley's communities for over a century.
Close the loop beneath larch canopies back at the Afan Forest visitor centre. Route complete — your medal is earned.
How it works
Ready to start walking?
Download Zelus and pick the Afan Vale Loop. Your first steps today count toward the finish line.
Frequently asked questions
How long does this challenge take?
The target is 7 days. At around 3–4 km of walking per day, most people finish within 1–2 weeks. There's no time limit — go at your own pace.
Do I need to be in Wales?
No. Your everyday steps wherever you are get mapped onto the Afan Vale route. You could be walking in any city and making progress through the Welsh forest.
How are my steps converted to distance?
Zelus syncs with your phone's step counter and converts steps into kilometres using a calibrated stride length. Your position updates on the map automatically.
Can I do this with friends?
Yes. Start the same route with friends and race each other in multiplayer. See who reaches the High Bridge first.
What happens when I finish?
You earn the Afan Vale Loop completion medal, permanently added to your profile. Then pick your next route from the 14+ challenges available.
What if I miss a day?
Nothing happens — your progress stays exactly where you left it. Pick it back up whenever you're ready.