Coed y Brenin is to mountain bikers what Val d’Isere is to skiers – paradise. This network of all-weather, purpose built trails offers something to suit all levels and ages – right from small kids to your granddad.

Setting out from the visitor centre, one of the nicest aspects of the trail is that there is no slog uphill before hitting some nice windy singletrack. Instead you are eased in gently and given a chance to warm up and find your biking mojo before hitting the hard stuff.

Those who are new to the sport or who have brought the whole family along can opt to take the green or blue routes which offer a gentle introduction to mountain biking. If you prefer to get the heart racing with something more challenging you can opt for one of the six red and black routes on offer.

We took on The Beast, a 38km black trail with some killer climbs and technical sections that certainly left us breathless. As its name suggests, it’s a gruelling trail that should only be attempted by seasoned bikers. The slog is worth is though as the trail features lots of exciting features including ‘Falseteeth’ and ‘The Cavity’ which is largest technical trail feature at the centre and as the names suggest, not for the faint hearted.

Throughout the route you will be treated to the spectacular scenery of Snowdonia National Park coupled with nice interjections of river crossings and tamer sections along the trail which allow you to catch your breath.
Afterwards you can wash down your bike, take a shower and treat yourself to a well-earned welsh cake and a cup of tea at the visitor centre.

How to get there:
The nearest villages to Coed y Brenin are Dolgellau, Porthmadog, Bala, Barmouth, Blaenau Ffestiniog, and Machynlleth. To get to the trails head east off the A470, eight miles north of Dolgellau just north of Ganllwyd, south of Trawsfynydd. Follow the brown tourist signs.

Bike Hire:
Bikes can be rented from Beics Brenin. Prices start at £25 per day for an entry level bike. Phoning ahead to reserve a bike is advisable.