Berms for biking beginners at Brecon Beacons beauty spot

A stunning new beginners’ mountain bike trail has been created in a Welsh beauty spot.

Set in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, the trail is ideal for competent cyclists looking for a first taste of off-roading.

“The hosted rides are the perfect introduction to the exhilarating world of mountain biking,” said BikePark Wales’ founder and director Martin Astley.

“At five kilometres long, the Kermit trail offers an awesome introduction to mountain biking in a stunning location.”

Visitors to the trail in Gethin Forest can expect bermed corners, rock slabs, roller coaster sections and tree-lined flow sections, all of which are designed to ensure bike speed can always be controlled.

The four-hour Ticket To Ride groups are led by an experienced guide who provides tips and advice, assists with getting kitted up and navigates riders down the mountain.

Martin added: “There’s nothing like it anywhere else in the UK and it’s a unique way for beginners and families to enjoy their first taste of this fun sport in a safe and controlled manner. Our hosts will be on hand throughout, offering tips and advice to ensure you make the most of your adventure.”

Guided ‘Ticket to Ride’ sessions cost £65 for children and £80 for adults. The minimum rider age is eight on the uplifted tour.

BikePark Wales is also offering half day sessions (2hr 45mins); including bike, helmet and equipment hire plus full access to the five-kilometre Kermit trail and unlimited free bus uplift trips back to the top of the run from £56pp on Friday and £60pp at weekends (suitable for children aged eight or over).

Based near Merthyr Tydfil, it is home to the UK’s most diverse selection of all-weather mountain bike trails.

The concept is simple – picture a ski resort but remove the snow and replace the pistes with an array of sweeping bike trails to suit all standards.

All riders will need to pre-book and passes will be limited to control numbers.

Strict covid control measures will also be in operation across the site including disinfecting all hire equipment after every use, Perspex screens at all payment points, card payments only, one-way systems and hand-sanitising stations.

“It has been an incredibly tough winter for everyone, but we have been working tirelessly throughout lockdown to improve the bike park and we are so excited to share what we have done with visitors,” Martin added.

“The site has been completely transformed and almost every aspect of the operation has been given some love.”

Among the major improvements are four brand new trails, extra parking, faster check-in, a more efficient uplift service and an improved après ride experience.