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!!
What could be improved?
None, this was honestly the best trail I've ridden.
Went to Afan four 4 days from Sat 19th Nov to 22nd.
What can i say it was excellent staying at Afan Lodge with secure bike lock up, bike washing facilities, car park, on the main path to both Afan Visitor Centre & Glyncorrwg Centre is fantastic.
Restaurant food great, bar and open fire to chill out and even do biker bowls in afternoon and rooms big and comfy.
Now onto the trails done the Penyhdd & The Wall on Saturday thought Penyhdd was much better than The Wall.
Sunday Whites Level which was my favourite what a superb downhill from Windy Point.
Rode the four days on my Genesis Latitude 20 Steel Hardtail also which climbs so well.
Monday Penhydd again and Blue Scar it was raining so hard that i could not see at times but had hot soup in the cafe before going out again in treacherous conditions to do Blue Scar which is a great flowing loop once the climb is out the way.
Tuesday done some of the Blade which was very rocky but fun and Whites Level again great combination and also a different climb up this time
I have to say how good the riding was but be prepared for 6km climbs at the beginning.
Stay at Afan Lodge you wont get anywhere better in the country for Mountain Bikers
What do you like?
Excellent Facilities with Cafe, Bike Shop and plenty of cheap parking at Afan Visitor Centre.
Everyone very friendly
Great trails in Particular Whites Level & Penyhdd
Blue Scar also a great flowing blast
2 days of dry weather
Afan Lodge excellent - people so friendly and great access to both trail centres great open fire
What could be improved?
Weather 2 days of rain
Lots of building work re the Wind Farm but all trails open
The Uphills but really they are worth the effort
Used to be the place to go in South Wales. I guess bike technology has moved on, but the trails have stayed the same.
However it does have great variety - green, blue scar, reds and blacks and it is a great place for starting mtbing or intermediate riders. Hardcore riders are better looking elsewhere.
I would base myself from Afan visitor centre and def call into the bike park at Bryan Bettws
What do you like?
Rode at Glyncorrag today. Trail centre head is good with a well stocked shop. Cafe menu wasn't as good as it was a few years back.
The climb is nice and techy and good fun.
Afan visitor centre is much improved however and Ben his team are running a great set up. His off piste day is highly recommended!
Good variety of trails and bike park at Bryan bettws is great.
What could be improved?
Descents are too pedally, and don't have real flow to them. Not worth the effort of the climbs.
However some of the off piste is great if you know where to look
Good food in cafes, bike wash and showering facilities ensure you comfortable drive home.
What do you like?
Single track heaven. Excelent for all levels of rounded mountain biking. All your hard work on technical climbs is rewarded by challenging decents. Good for families with children that are developing there skills.