Looking for a family bike outing? One South Wales attraction has pulled in tens of thousands in the past year, as HANNAH WOOD discovered.

THE UK’s first full-scale mountain bike park is celebrating a successful first year after welcoming over 60,000 visitors.

BikePark Wales is situated in Gethin Woods near Merthyr Tydfil and is built by riders for riders. The park has something for everyone, from the most extreme biker to those who enjoy a peaceful cycle through the scenic routes.

The park has different trails suitable for different skill levels and ages. The ‘Badger’s run’ and the link to the ‘Taff trail’ are ideal for family bike rides, whereas the ‘rock and roll’ and ‘pork belly’ trails are for the risk takers! The ‘Trail X’ is the only pro line at the park.

Visitors to the park will be transported by a fleet of minibuses to the top of the mountain, Mynydd Gethin, reaching 491m. All that is left to do then is for cyclists to choose their route and make their way down to the bottom of the mountain ready to catch the next lift up. The fitness fanatics can also use the single track climb to pedal their way to the top of the hill.

Since opening last year, BikePark Wales has also hosted two major tournaments; the 2013 Welsh Downhill Championships and the British Downhill Series in 2014.

Experienced mountain biker and managing director Martin Astley, is delighted with the park’s success and is keen to build on its growing popularity. Mr Astley said: “BikePark Wales was built by riders for riders to create the ultimate riding experience. We offer lift-assisted trails for all abilities from beginner to pro and this has helped boost our visitor numbers. Our goal is to host more international tournaments in Wales as BikePark Wales is one of only two UK sites that could host a World Cup round.

“Last year’s success proved there is a real appetite for mountain biking and we have some great plans for the next few years, including more trails for local bikers. Finance Wales saw the commercial potential of mountain biking and their backing early on was crucial in helping us get our business off the ground,” he said.

BikePark Wales’ directors combined a Finance Wales loan with funding from the Welsh Government including Visit Wales’ EU funded Sustainable Tourism project aimed at developing Cycling Centres of Excellence in South Wales. A successful first year has enabled BikePark Wales to repay part of its loan early.

With mountain biking one of the world’s fastest growing outdoor activities, BikePark Wales was set up as a result of the Welsh Government’s plan to increase cycling tourism. An estimated two million mountain bikes are now sold each year in the UK.

The investment has already helped BikePark Wales create 20 full-time and eight part-time jobs. Uniquely, it employs a full-time professional trail crew to maintain and develop its trails, ensuring it builds upon its competitive edge.

Investment executive, Sam Macalister-Smith made Finance Wales’ loan to BikePark Wales. He said: “BikePark Wales’ experienced management team are mountain-biking fanatics who understand the sport both as riders and business owners. They’ve used their expertise to transform Gethin Woods into a must-visit destination for serious riders that’s quickly become part of the UK’s mountain-biking community.”

With investment staff based throughout Wales, Finance Wales provides small to medium enterprises with a local service. Portfolio Executive, Steve Elias has established a strong working relationship with the BikePark Wales team, providing them with on-going support as they build their business. Mr Astley said: “BikePark Wales has benefitted from Finance Wales’ local approach and we’ve built an excellent relationship with our Portfolio Executive, Steve Elias. He has been available to discuss business issues we’ve faced and this has been very valuable for us.”

The success of the innovative bike park has also been congratulated by Economy Minister, Edwina Hart, she said: “BikePark is an iconic development for Wales which is already raising the profile of South Wales as a mountain biking and cycling destination. I’d like to congratulate both private and public sector partners on working together to realise this vision, and wish the park every success for future development.”

BikePark Wales is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, however in the winter months closing time may be earlier due to limited light. Park entry fees cost £6, and a day pass including minibus lifts cost £30 on Monday-Friday, £32.50 for Saturdays and Sundays and weekend passes cost £60; park entry is included in these prices.

For more information on BikePark Wales contact 07730 382501 or for business and loan information contact Finance Wales on 0800 587 4140.