Mountain biking in Wye Valley
Overview
The Forest of Dean is a great place for mountain bikers of all abilities. You can cycle from the hostel to reach the main centre in the forest (please ask for a map at reception) or alternatively, it is just a 15 minute drive from YHA Wye Valley.
Family Cycle Trail
The family cycle trail is a clearly marked gravel track which provides a perfect day out for all the family. Skills areas along the side of the trail provides extra fun for the more adventurous.
Sallow Valet Cycle Centre
In the heart of the forest are two man-made cross country trails for beginners and intermediate riders and a series of downhill runs for the expert mountain biker.
The Verderers Trail – 11km (Grade Blue - Beginner/Intermediate)
Widely acclaimed as the best new trail in Britain, the Verderers incorporates fast, flowing flat out corners, big berms and rollovers. With some tricky challenges, the trail gently winds uphill before a swooping, flat top section and a brilliant descent on the Dragon's Tail that will have you smiling all the way down.
The Freeminer Trail – 7km (Grade Red – Intermediate/Advanced)
The Freeminer Trail is graded red and now has 2.5km of brand new extension. With two new killer climbs plus a steep twisty bermed section, rock garden and a jumps line, the Freeminers' now has something for every advanced rider.
Designed, built and maintained by volunteers in partnership with the Forestry Commission, this challenging and varied single track (now 7km) can offer something to even the most demanding of riders - from tricky switchback climbs to rooty drops and hairpin bends, it is for experienced riders and off-road quality mountain bikes only.
Downhill runs – Various (Grade Black – Advanced)
There are 11 different downhill runs of varying length. Below is a small selection to whet your appetite. A full list is available at the hostel.
Ski Run – The original downhill trail at the Forest of Dean and rideable in all weathers, the Ski Run drops in through big rocky and rooted sections with fade drops into a fast set of turns, a hip jump, the popular tabletop, berms and road gap.
The GBU - The Forest of Dean's latest line and first three spot trail. Be prepared for big step downs and a final jumps line that will have you shouting all the way down - carry as much speed as possible for the final gap jump.
Uplift Service
At Sallow valet’s there is an uplift service provided by Flyup Downhill. For a daily or per run price you can skip the uphill slog to the fun downhill routes by taking the minibus and then enjoying the ride. The service can be booked online here."
What makes it special
- Family Cycle Trail
Hostels nearby
Other things to do nearby
Walking and Rambling around St Briavels Castle
The hostel is right in the middle Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley so there's lots of fantastic walks from the doorstep.
Cycling in the Forest of Dean
Hop on your bike and explore the Forest of Dean. Try the Royal Forest Route which takes in a sculpture trail, mines dating back to the 1820's and a virtual lagoon of bluebells in spring!
Clearwell Caves
Visit the atmospheric mine workings with nine impressive caverns and winding passageways - great whatever the weather.
Go Ape - Forest of Dean
High wire fun in the forest – climb rope ladders, zip wire through the trees and tackle high wire rope bridges.
Puzzlewood
Explore this unique and enchanting place, with meandering pathways and fantastic rock formations that inspired JRR Tolkien.
Inspire2Adventure
Exciting adventure in the forest - try Inspire2Adventure's Guided Open Canoe Expeditions, Gorge Scrambling Experience, Rock climbing and Abseiling and more!
Taurus Crafts
So much to see! local craft workshops, events and shops to inspire your creativity. Throw your own pot or visit the garden retreat.
Tintern Abbey
One of the greatest monastic ruins of Wales. Don't miss the Nave's west window which is currently being restored. Visit the website
Monmouth Canoe Hire
Just downstream from a small set of rapids, marking the start of a beautiful section of the Wye, there's 100 miles of canoe-able river.
Goodrich Castle
Standing in open countryside above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles.
Cider Museum
Housed in an old cider making factory, visitors walk through the original cellars and learn about the history of cider making. Visit the Museum website
Chepstow Museum
Explore the rich and varied past of this ancient town, once an important port and market centre.
Walking and Rambling in Wye Valley
YHA Wye Valley is perfect for walking holidays. The hostel is on the Wye Valley Walk, a very popular walking trail through the Welsh borders and the limestone valley.
Cycling in Wye Valley
The Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley are great for cycling. There are many routes depending on your requirements.
Watersports in Wye Valley
YHA Wye Valley is the perfect stop off point if you're paddling from Hereford to Monmouth. The hostel even has its own canoe launch next to the riverside campsite.
Chepstow Walking Festival
The Lower Wye Valley is stunning throughout the year, but particularly so in Spring when the bluebells are in full bloom and surely there is no better introduction to its landscape and heritage than t