Mountain Biking at Whinlatter Trail Centre in t...
Biking at Whinlatter in the English Lake District was such a blast, we are heading back as soon as we can!
Mountain Biking the Clwyd in Wales
Rounding out our UK road trip, we hit up some pristine trails in northern Wales.
After spending some time riding both in England and Scotland, we thought it necessary to head over to Wales and get some more mountain biking action in. With a few internet searches under our belts, we decided to check out the Clwyd in the northern part of the country. We were a little fuzzy on exactly how to get there, but hey, what’s a road trip without a few wrong turns?
Wheelies for all!
The area
The wrong turns began as soon as we arrived in the area. Without an exact address and the trail heads being very far apart, we got lost a few times, but eventually we found the 12 km Coed Moel Famau Loop we wanted to ride with the help of a local. (Tip: follow the Coed Famau signs on the A494 between Mold and Ruthin.)
Eventually we found the 12 km Coed Moel Famau Loop we wanted to ride with the help of a local.
When we arrived, we only found a few info signs around the parking lot. We were alone with nature and panorama views direct in sight. We felt this was the perfect way to start a little bike adventure in the wild.
This area offers panorama views everywhere you look.
The climb
Overall, this trail is known to have flow, and it didn’t disappoint. Our ride began with a gravel climb through the forest, but soon after the panorama views began. Weaving up the trail, our eyes soaked in the grassy hills of the surrounding area.
Weaving up the trail, our eyes soaked in the grassy hills of the surrounding area.
It reminded all of us of the Windows XP background, but of course much more spectacular. After riding 8 km, we reached the highest point of the route at 375 m. The last part of the climb rewarded us with a view all the way to the ocean.
Pushing up the last bit of the climb.
A short break before continuing.
Up and up we go!
Taking pictures is a must.
The descent
The downhill portion of the ride was curvy and fun, but not technically challenging. Riding along wide paths of gravel and grass we kept our speed up all the way to the end of the trail. It is important to check the signage / gps track here, to make sure you don’t miss a turn.
The ride down is perfect for family rides as well as those just looking for a fun and fast descent.
The ride down is perfect for family rides as well as those just looking for a fun and fast descent. After the 4 km of downhill we arrived back at the parking lot.
On our way down.
Taking in the beautiful views.
Rolling out the fast descent.
Flow is to be had everywhere!
The ride home
After riding the Coed Moel Faum Loop, our road trip through the UK had come to an end. Even though we got lost a few times on our way to the Clwyd trails, ever part of the ride was worth it. Beautiful panorama views, flowy descents and a fast pace made this ride spectacular. However, for those looking for something more epic, don’t shy away from this area. There are plenty of trails for every skill level. We recommend using GPS tracks to navigate with your car to the start point of whichever trail you chose. Riding here was truly amazing and the next time we are in the UK, one of the stops will be here.
If you are looking for more information about the area, see www.ridenorthwales.co.uk.
UK Road Trip
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