Fundamentals of Mountain Biking Ride - an introduction to Hafren Forest

This Breeze bike ride is a beginners mountain bike ride, brought to you by a qualified British Cycling Fundamentals of Mountain Biking Leader.


To deliver rides as per the remit of the Fundamentals of MTB Award, I hold a valid Level 3 outdoor first aid certificate.


This is a lovely introduction to riding in Hafren Forest on traffic free forestry tracks taking in some beautiful views over the forest and waterfalls including the Blaen Hafren Falls and the famous Severn-Break-its-Neck waterfall.


This ride is suitable for all types of mountain bikes (full sus, hardtail and mountain eBikes). Hybrids with off road tyres are also welcome.

We will be riding a 10 mile circular route in Hafren Forest.

The first 500m from the car park is a gentle climb on the quiet tarmac road, we then turn off onto traffic free forestry trails which are compacted gravel. Towards the end of the ride we will visit the Severn-Break-its-Neck waterfall before rejoining the road for a short ride back to the carpark. The route is undulating in places, there are a few gentle climbs but nothing steep and we will wait for everyone at the top (a great opportunity to take in the views!).

There is no cafe in Hafren Forest but once the ride has finished and we've packed our bikes away, we can drive to Caffi Clywedog which is 15 minutes away. It's a lovely vegan cafe overlooking the reservoir.

Helmets are required and clothing suitable for riding in the forest, you don't need anything fancy but avoid loose/baggy trousers which can catch in your chain! The weather can change in a moment so please ensure you have a jacket and layers which can be removed if needed. Please check the weather on the day and bring a waterproof jacket/trousers if rain is forecast. It's a good idea to wear a rucksack, you can put spare clothing away, store waterproofs etc. You will need a drink and some snacks too as you may get hungry on the ride! Make sure you thoroughly check your bike over before the ride and check your tyre pressures. You must bring a puncture repair kit or spares and a bicycle pump if you are unlucky to get a puncture.

FIRST TIMERS WELCOME! If you have never ridden off road before and are unsure of what to expect, what to wear and if your bike is suitable please drop me a message and I will happily answer all your questions. It’s ok to feel a bit nervous, everyone does at first but Breeze ladies are all very supportive and we’ve all been beginners!