Great mountain bike trails for families and beginners in Wales

The Blue MinorTaur route at Coed y Brenin near Dolgellau, can easily be summed up as ‘fun and rolling’. Perfect for those wanting to develop their mountain biking skills but avoid major climbs and overly technical sections. Comprised of four loops, it delivers you back to the visitor centre, providing you with an opportunity for a well-earned cup of tea and piece of cake! The first three loops are suitable for adaptive mountain bikes.

Pre-bookable bike hire is available at Beics Brenin - they also hire out ebikes.

The Green Trail is a waymarked route of approximately 5km developed specifically with families in mind. After cycling around the reservoir, the route meanders back through Llandegla Forest before the final descent sweeps you back down to the visitor centre where they sell award winning bacon butties. Oneplanet Adventure also offer bike hire and MTB courses to improve your skills.

The Rookie Green Trail is a wide and meandering trail designed specifically for families and beginners, and is suitable for adaptive bikes and wheelchairs.  Picnic areas can be found along the route and there’s even an optional skills area for those wanting to develop their technical riding. The Rookie trail has all the ingredients for a great family day out in Afan Forest.

Llys-y-Fran Lake and Visitor Centre in Clarbeston Road has recently had a massive re-vamp. It's a great place for an outdoor family day out on the lake or on the trails. There's a Pump Skills Track to hone your skills before having a go at the Duck, Duck Goose and Grebe Glen green trails. The essential post-ride cake and a cuppa is available at the Lakeside Café in the Visitor Centre. Bike hire is available and they also have a repair shop.

Once a famous industrial heartland the South Wales Valleys provide a real Welsh biking experience. Traverse the lush green valleys and ride along former canal towpaths, tramways and disused railways which once bought great industrial importance to South Wales. With over 250 miles of National Cycle Network you’ll be spoilt for choice.