Review for Afan Forest Mountain Bike Trail Centre

Natalie Fraser:

Give it a go, you won't be disappointed! :)

I was a bit nervous about tackling Whites Level, I was riding alone and had done Penhydd the day before and found that to be at about my level and after reading the description of Whites Level I thought it might be a challenge for me but went for it anyway (you have to push it now and again!) I'm so glad I did! The initial climb was quite long but honestly didn't feel it as the rocky single track keeps you occupied and interested unlike the long fire road slogs of some trails. It was seriously foggy so I missed the long distance views but it was still stunningly beautiful. When I reached the forest the fun really started, the trail was flowing and fast, I particularly enjoyed the Energy section! The downhill sections were technical enough to be enjoyable and not overly scary (I did have one oh sh** moment where I caught a rock at the wrong angle and was very close to the edge of a steep drop but that's all part of the fun!) One feature I enjoyed was the boardwalks, fun to ride and covered with wire to prevent unwanted slipping! Over all this is an amazing trail, great fun and physically/technically challenging enough to make you feel very accomplished at the end. I hired a Santa Cruz Bronson for this and what a bike!! The guys in the shop were helpful and really nice and the cafe supplied me with a gorgeous flapjack the size of my forearm!! (Some saved for the next day!) After riding Whites Level I felt like I'd achieved something and improved my technical skills and confidence. Give it a go!!