Coed y Brenin was the first purpose-built mountain biking trail centre in the United Kingdom. In the 1990s, the Forestry Commission recognized the potential of Coed y Brenin as a mountain biking destination. The first purpose-built mountain bike trails were developed in collaboration with local riders and advocacy groups. The initial trails were created in the late 90s, including the iconic "The Beast" trail, which gained a reputation for its technical challenges and still holds weight among riders now.
Over the years, the trail centre at Coed y Brenin continued to expand and innovate. New trails were added, catering to riders of different abilities and preferences. The development of the trail centre was driven by the ongoing collaboration between the Forestry Commission, trail designers, and local riders. Coed Y Brenin now has a super network of trails, excellent bike hire and service shops and multiple companies running guiding and coaching sessions from the Park.
Featured Properties
There are many trails to explore in and outside of the trail centre at Coed Y Brenin from the man-made trails such as "The Beast" and "The MBR" trails to the bridleways and gravel roads throughout the forest. The Sarn Helen Trail also passes through the Coed Y Brenin trail centre and we use a section of this incredible ancient roman road to access the park from one of our accommodations.
The Beast: This is one of the most famous trails in Coed y Brenin and is known for its technical challenges and demanding terrain. The Beast is a 38-kilometre epic route that combines natural singletrack with sections of a purpose-built trail. It features rocky descents, rooty sections, and some steep climbs, providing an exhilarating ride for experienced mountain bikers.
The MBR: Trail is a 21-kilometre route suitable for riders with some experience. It combines technical singletrack sections with flowing trails, allowing riders to enjoy a mix of challenges and enjoyable riding through the forest.
Coed y Brenin also provides various family-friendly trails and shorter routes for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. Additionally, the forest park offers facilities such as bike hire, a visitor center, and a cafe so you can spend a full day here without much trouble.
Coed y Brenin is usually wet and wild
Everything you need for a great day riding is there
Coed y Brenin trail centre also offers bike hire services and mountain bike guides if you don't feel comfortable self-guiding or have not booked one of our superb MTB tours in the area. The visitor centre located at Coed y Brenin provides these facilities to cater to the needs of mountain bikers. You can also book experienced and knowledgeable mountain bike guides who are familiar with the trails and can provide valuable insights, local knowledge, and tips. Guided rides can be a great way to explore the trails, learn new skills, and discover hidden gems within the forest park.
There are several bike shops in the vicinity of Coed y Brenin Forest Park that provide bike sales, rentals, repairs, and other services. One we recommend strongly is Beics Brenin. Beics Brenin is a bike shop and rental centre located within Coed y Brenin Forest Park itself. They offer a range of mountain bikes for hire, along with bike sales, repairs, and equipment. With Specialized bikes including e-bikes and a great workshop, they are your go-to when in the trail centre.
Summit Cycles: Summit Cycles is a well-known bike shop in the nearby town of Aberystwyth, approximately 30 miles west of Coed y Brenin. They offer a wide range of mountain bikes, road bikes, and accessories. Summit Cycles provides bike sales, repairs, and servicing, and they may have rental options available as well.
Dolgellau Cycles: Dolgellau Cycles is a bike shop located in the town of Dolgellau, which is just a few miles away from Coed y Brenin. They offer a variety of bikes for sale, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes. Dolgellau Cycles also provides bike repairs, maintenance, and accessories.
Andy's Bike Clinic: Andy's Bike Clinic is another bike shop in Dolgellau, situated close to Coed y Brenin. They specialize in bike repairs, servicing, and custom bike builds. While they may not offer rental bikes, they can assist with bike maintenance and repairs if needed.
These are just a few examples of bike shops in the vicinity of Coed y Brenin. It's recommended to contact the shops directly or check their websites for specific services, availability, and opening hours, as these may vary.
Rocks and more rocks, just how we like it
How to get to Coed Y Brenin
The best way to travel to Coed Y Brenin MTB trail centre is by car as the trail centre is quite remote, by bike is even better, however! Coed y Brenin Forest Park is located near Dolgellau in North Wales. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Coed y Brenin and the forest park is located just off the A470 road, approximately 8 miles north of Dolgellau. You can use GPS or online maps to navigate to the Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre, where you'll find parking facilities.
Public Transportation: While public transportation options are more limited, it is still possible to reach Coed y Brenin by bus or train. The nearest train station to Coed y Brenin is Dolgellau, and from there, you can take a taxi or local bus to the forest park. However, be sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as services may be limited, especially on weekends or during off-peak seasons.
Cycling: If you're an avid cyclist or looking for a longer adventure, you can consider cycling to Coed y Brenin. The forest park is easily accessible by bike, and there are dedicated cycle routes and lanes in the area.
Beyond the trail centre
Explore and find more trails
There is also so much mountain biking to explore close to Coed Y Brenin and some of the very best are in the Dyfi Forest, or Pont Scethin. If you have any questions regarding mountain biking in Coed Y Brenin please use the form below to get in contact and one of our team will get back to you asap.
