It’s only about five minutes since the new Wall Trail at Afan Forest Park was opened, and all of a sudden there’s yet another whole new trail just up the valley at Glyncorrwg. It’s the first of a new phase of development in the area that looks set to make Afan a premier MTB destination. Usually we shy away from just running press releases but this one’s pretty decent so here it is:
Situated close to the Penhydd and Wall trails, a brand new trail, White’s Level will open to riders on April 18th. “The terrain around Glyncorrwg is very challenging- high, steep, and with a lot of large rock outcrops,” explains trail designer Russell Burton, “it was a much more difficult build, but never being able to take the easy option with the design has meant we’ve ended up with a higher grade of trail. I reckon it’s our most technically demanding yet.” An incredible 11km of the trail’s 16km length is single track. This is not just another trail. Bring your finely tuned bike and a Camelbak of nerve. Expect heart-stopping rock steps, reaction sharpening twisted exposure and long, take-you-smiling-into-Monday-morning descents. The quality of riding in this area has already been compared to the best in the world, and White’s Level is just the first phase of an ambitious development planned for Glyncorrwg. A second high level, epic view big-ride, 46km trail is planned for early 2004, and a dedicated mountain bike café and centre is proposed, for opening in Spring 2004. Eventually all trails in the area will link via the old railway line, making for over 100km of marked trails alone. Right now however, it’s a site under development, so riders are asked to be understanding! Car parking, toilets and showers will be available. Local riders and trail builders will be rallying round to provide post-ride tea and buns from the existing building. Local community group, Glyncorrwg Ponds Co-operative has made this project possible, with funding from Cydcoed, a £17 million programme that provides help and 100 per cent grants for community groups. It is funded under the European Union’s Objective One programme by the European Union and the Forestry Commission in Wales. The Afan Trails Project, of which White’s Level is the second trail to be completed, is a key part of the Forestry Commission Wales – Wales Tourist Board programme to develop five world class destinations in Wales. It is also supported by Neath-Port Talbot Council. To get to Glyncorrwg: exit the M4 at junction 40 and follow signs for Cymer, along the A4107. Pass the entrance to the Afan Visitor Centre, go through Cymer and take a hairpin left, signed to Glyncorrwg. Approaching Glyncorrwg town there is a left turn to Glyncorrwg Ponds Centre. Follow this and enter the car park through the large metal gates.So there you go. Sounds like a stormer – we’ll go and check it out soon and report back…
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