Took the bikes over on the ferry from Birkenhead to Belfast as we were staying at a lovely barn conversion (Crotlieve 4 bed 3 bath and good bike cleaning facilities). This was my first ride in Northern Ireland and was delighted to see we were staying 100m from the Rostrevor MTB trail. On Sunday I joined the trail high up the valley and was directed by a few friendly local riders towards 'Heart Attack Hill' - I edged my bets as I was riding solo and pushed as I neared the top. From there I really enjoyed the variety of the trail, very different from my local trails at Swinley Forest (I'll post a few photos), you can make the ride as difficult as you want or are able. On the many rocky sections it was a good boost to confidence every time you come through unscathed, managed to navigate back to Crotlieve. Could wait to take my 14 year old lad out during the week, this time we took the road downhill to the start of the trail in Rostrevor. From there it was a hard ride and push in parts to the top (didn't find the uplift service, but did see it in use later in the week). We were rewarded with spectacular views but eventually we found ourselves above the cloud base. We took the Red trail down and absolutely loved it, I'd recommend lights as visibility was poor in the depth of the woods with the cloud, a good test though (could be my eyes!). All in all a most enjoyable ride and a good workout.
Good points:
Great location above Carlingford Lough
Trails are as testing as you make them
Photo opportunities
Mid-week real feeling of being away from the madding crowd
Friendly MTB riders
Good work-out
Bad points:
I couldn't quite make it up 'Heart Attack' hill (that's avoidable if you start at the beginning)
Would you recommend?
Yes
Date written:
31/12//2014 - over 9 years agoWas this review helpful to you?
2