Over £467,000 will be spent on boosting cycling tourism across Anglesey and Gwynedd ahead of next year's Tour de France Grand Depart.

Around £100,000 of Welsh Government funding will go towards Holyhead's Gateway Coastal Cycling Route.

The Anglesey Council-led project aims to make it easier for both residents and visitors to explore the island's coastline, communities and attractions by bike, as well as offering more opportunities for the local tourist sector.

Elsewhere, the Eryri National Park Authority will receive £122,000 for three schemes to improve cycling infrastructure, including improvements to the Mawddach trail.

2027 has been designated as Wales' year of cycling as the UK prepares to host a three-day Grand Départ 2027 for the world's biggest cycle race, concluding with a stage from Welshpool to Cardiff.

The Welsh Government says just under £3.2 million has been awarded to 54 projects as part of its Croeso i Feicwyr (Welcome to Cyclists) programme, along with a further £1.3 million for its business ready fund.

A promotional campaign will see the launch of a new interactive mapping tool bringing together cycling routes and destinations from across Wales, along with projects working with businesses and communities to showcase Wales as a cycling destination.

Enterprise Minister, Adam Price, said: "The Tour de France Grand Départ presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Wales."

"As we prepare to welcome the world's biggest cycling race, we're investing in facilities and experiences that will encourage more people to explore Wales on two wheels, while helping local businesses benefit from growing cycling tourism."

"From coastal routes and community cycling hubs to some of Wales' most challenging climbs, these projects will help turn the excitement of the Tour into lasting opportunities for communities."

"We want the benefits to be felt long after the race has finished, creating a lasting tourism, sporting and economic legacy for Wales."

The local projects receieving Welsh Government funding are as follows:

Anglesey Council

• £100,000 - Holyhead Gateway Coastal Cycling Route Enhancement
• £79,664 - Connecting People, Places and Experiences

Cyngor Gwynedd

• £86,848 - O'r Mynydd i'r Mor
• £77,952 - O'r Llechi i'r Lli

Eryri National Park Authority

• £48,758 - Improving Cycling Infrastructure in Eryri
• £25,032 - The Mawddach Trail - Improving the Cycling Infrastructure