World Class Mountain Bike Centre Opens In Gwynedd

In an area where the terrain lends itself to all things rugged and outdoors,  a Gwynedd forest has cemented its place as a world-class mountain biking destination with the official opening of a new £1.7m extension.

World class facilities at Coed-y-Brenin

Almost doubling the size of the existing centre at Coed-y-Brenin near Dolgellau, the improvements include the provision of a new beginners bike skills section which is called Y Ffowndri (The Foundry), as well as a hire centre and bike shop.

The new buildings at Coed-y-Brenin near Dolgellau almost double the size of facilities at the forest, including a new bike shop and hire centre.

Culture and Sports Minister John Griffiths said, "These world-class facilities in the heart of Snowdonia help showcase the fantastic landscape we have in Wales for responsible outdoor recreation," said the minister.

"Visitors to Wales cite the natural environment as the primary reason for their visit, and the contribution to the Welsh economy of outdoor recreation, particularly in rural areas, mustn't be underestimated. Improving access to the outdoors clearly has the potential to benefit Wales greatly."

The centre is proud of the fact that the new buildings at the forest site have come from timber sourced entirely at Coed-y-Brenin itself. The centre now becomes one of four sites known as the Snowdonia Centre of Excellence, a £4m project backed through EU funding and the Welsh government to develop outdoor activities throughout the year.

Managed by Natural Resources Wales, previously known as the Forestry Commission, the new extension will provide round the clock access to the mountain biking attraction. The Y Ffowndri skills centre is particularly focused on newcomers, to help give them the foundations skills required before they head out onto the the bike trails, which range from beginner sections to 'severe' black routes, with names like 'Beast of Brenin' and 'Tarw' (Bull). A new trail will also be available called MinorTaur, which is an intermediate route that can cater for individuals with disabilities.

Tim Jones of Natural Resources Wales added: "We are committed to providing people with opportunities to access our countryside and to lead more active lifestyles and Coed-y-Brenin delivers on a grand scale, as the visitor numbers demonstrate.

"In addition to nurturing the well-being of people drawn to this wonderful location in the heart of Snowdonia, we must not overlook the important support that Coed-y-Brenin provides for the local economy as many of these visitors take advantage of the warm hospitality on offer in the area."

      http://www.mbwales.com/en/content/cms/Centres/Coed_y_Brenin/Coed_y_Brenin.aspx