Without doubt in 2024 North Wales will again be one of the best places in the United Kingdom for mountain biking!
The rugged beauty of Eryri | Snowdonia and breathtaking landscapes across the region offer incredible trails that cater to all skill levels, making it a dream destination for MTB enthusiasts.
Are you ready to embark on an adrenaline-fueled adventure that will take your mountain bike skills to a whole new level?
Here is our guide to the best trail centres and locations for mountain biking in North Wales, all not far from our B&B - Crafnant House - in Trefriw!
Where is the best place to stay for your mountain biking holiday in North Wales?
Looking for the best place to stay for your mountain biking getaway?
Why not stay with us at Crafnant House, which is just two miles from the Gwydir Mawr & Bach trails and within easy reach of the other fantastic locations below.
After an exhilarating day on the trails, use our bike storage and washing facilities and then rest and rejuvenate in the warm hospitality of our boutique B&B.
Our cosy and comfortable accommodation offers the perfect retreat for tired riders.
Whether you choose to relax by the crackling fire pit in the garden or chill out in the pub next door with a local ale, our B&B will help you unwind and recharge for your next adventure!
And as keen cyclists ourselves we can advise you on the best places to ride… or the best cafes to refuel in!!!
In the southern half of Eryri | Snowdonia National Park - near Machynlleth and Dolgellau - The Old Vicarage in Corris is another great place to stay.
Kirsty and Gareth welcome you to their luxury B&B - it is in the perfect location for the centres and trails at both Coed-y-Brenin and DYFI Bike Park.
It is also ideally located if you are attending the Redbull Hardline downhill MTB race which is regularly held in the Dyfi Valley!
The best mountain biking locations in Eryri | Snowdonia & North Wales!
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
Located near the towns of Dolgellau and Machynlleth, in Eryri | Snowdonia National Park, Coed y Brenin is a mountain biker's paradise.
With its diverse network of trails, ranging from gentle forest paths to challenging descents, Coed y Brenin is a trail centre that caters to riders of all abilities.
Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque woodlands and stunning mountain views that surround you as you zip through the trails.
The Minotaur Trail offers jumps, drops, and specialized features that will test even the most experienced riders.
This trail provides an adrenaline-packed adventure, combining natural elements with man-made obstacles to create an unforgettable biking experience.
Beics Brenin - located at the visitor centre - offers mountain bike hire, repairs and accessories, ensuring you’re ready for your adventure!
Gwydir Mawr & Bach Trails
Formerly known as ‘The Marin Trail’, the Gwydir Mawr trail delivers an epic adventure that will test your skills and stamina.
This 25km circular route offers thrilling singltrack descents, technical challenges, and rewarding climbs.
As you traverse the trail, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Snowdonia, the Isle of Anglesey, and even the distant peaks of the Lake District.
The shorter Gwydir Bach trail is a 8.7km loop taking between 45 to 90 minutes to complete.
The starting point for both is just outside the town of Llanrwst, not far from Betws-y-Coed and only two miles from our B&B, Crafnant House.
If you need mountain bike rental whilst with us we recommend:
Snowdonia Bikes - they hire e-mountain bikes in nearby Llanrwst
Beics Betws - they offer mountain bike rental in nearby Betws-y-Coed
Penmachno Trails
These trails not far from Betws-y-Coed are definitely a hidden gem in North Wales!
They are very remote which adds to the drama and enjoyment when riding on them, and you are guaranteed spectacular views of Snowdonia.
The two loops can be ridden individually or you can complete one long 30km loop. Dolen Machno is 19km and Dolen Eryri is 11km.
Antur Stiniog
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, North Wales boasts exciting bike parks with uplift services that will push your limits.
Antur Stiniog in Blaenau Ffestiniog is a gravity-focused mountain biking center, featuring 14 thrilling downhill trails graded from green to black, and a dedicated uplift service.
The park's technical descents and challenging features guarantee an exhilarating experience especially for advanced riders.
The on-site visitor centre has a cafe, bike shop, showers and bike wash facilities.
DYFI Bike Park
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Dyfi Forest just north of Machynlleth, Dyfi Bike Park is a mecca for MTB enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience.
This mountain biking haven offers an array of thrilling trails that cater to riders of all abilities, promising a heart-pounding adventure through stunning natural landscapes.
From winding singletracks that test your skills and agility to gravity-fed jumps, fly-offs, berms and drops that cater to the more daring, Dyfi Bike Park has something for everyone.
The well-maintained trails, masterfully designed to maximize thrills while respecting the surrounding environment, make every ride a truly exhilarating affair.
Whether you're an experienced rider or a newcomer to the world of mountain biking, Dyfi Bike Park promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving for more.
Coed Llandegla
Located near Wrexham and just 20 minutes from Chester, Coed Llandegla is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts.
With its 40km network of exhilarating trails catering to all skill levels, it offers the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.
Whether you're a seasoned rider seeking adrenaline-pumping downhill descents or a novice looking to develop your skills, Coed Llandegla has something to offer everyone.
The well-maintained trails wind through dense forest, across rocky terrain, and along breathtaking ridgelines, promising an unforgettable mountain biking experience.
Facilities include a bike shop, cafe, and shower facilities.
Forest trails
If you want a gentler mountain bike ride on trails though spectacular forests then there are lots of great options.
These are great for families as they provide a safe, traffic-free environment for both adults and children to ride and explore the beautiful surroundings.
The Natural Resource Wales website is an excellent source of information and will give you ideas for places to explore by bike.
These are our favourite locations for easy forest trails to ride on:
What other delights in North Wales await you?
Of course during your mountain biking escapade, make sure to explore all of the other wonders that North Wales has to offer!
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this mystical land.
From quaint villages to medieval castles, there is something for everyone.
Indulge in the delicious local cuisine and experience the warmth of the Welsh people, whose friendly nature will make your visit even more memorable.
Be sure to visit the towns of Llandudno, Conwy and Caenarfon, or maybe enjoy the beaches on Anglesey or even climb Snowdon!
Whatever you decide to do you are guaranteed a fantastic mountain biking holiday in North Wales!
Coming to North Wales for a mountain biking holiday?
We have bike storage and washing facilities at Crafnant House - our B&B in the village of Trefriw, in Eryri | Snowdonia.
Five boutique bedrooms are available and a delicious breakfast is served each morning!
Are you planning you holiday in North Wales in 2024 and thinking about climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)?
At 3560 ft (1,085 m) high it is a justifiably popular outdoor activity and can be both a real adventure and an exhilarating day out with breathtaking views, especially if you get a ‘cloud-free’ summit!
We get lots of guests staying at our accommodation - Crafnant House, our B&B in the village of Trefriw - who come to climb ‘Yr Wyddfa’ (the Welsh name for it) - the highest mountain in Wales and England.
As experienced walkers we’ve hopefully included everything you need to know about the the different paths up and down and our honest opinions on the best and most scenic routes!