Who fancies a new fitness challenge for 2024?
Mountain biking in Ireland is one of the best hobbies out there for getting fit, learning new skills, getting out into the fresh air and meeting new people. It is an environmentally friendly way to see the glorious Irish countryside too, without the need for lots of driving or worrying about where to park the car.
There’s good news for ardent fans of mountain biking who are looking for the perfect place for their first adventure of 2024. The Slieve Bloom mountains in central Ireland are well set up to welcome mountain bikers of all abilities. The region is one of the most beautiful in Ireland and jam-packed with picturesque trails that range from flat forest roads for beginners to challenging ‘hilly’ routes for the more experienced. Helpful signage and downloadable trail maps help make navigating your way a simple task.
Prepare your bike – and yourself
Many of the mountain bike trails in the Slieve Bloom mountains are challenging and require higher levels of fitness and bike maintenance. Follow up on that new year’s resolution to get to the gym and get your strength and cardio levels up. The fitter you are the longer you can carry on following the trails – and the less likely you are to sustain any injuries. The same goes for your bike. Book it in with your local bike shop for a full service before setting off on your trip. Give it a New Year’s present of new tyres, brake pads and chain. Even though you are bound to meet up with mud and dirt in the mountains, disassemble and clean your bike before you set off, so that you can start off with it in the best possible condition.
Choose your trails
Be realistic when working out which trails to follow – and especially when planning how long each one will take. You will doubtless want to stop for rest water and snack breaks. Factor in extra time in case of unexpected delays. Check out local websites for details of the trails you might want to ride. There are currently 35km of new, waymarked trails in the region, stretching from Kinnitty to the north-west to Baunreagh in the south-east. Each trail is marked for its difficulty level from blue (moderate, some single-track sections) to red (difficult with challenging climbs and tricky descents). Always stay safe and do not attempt the harder trails until you have built up enough relevant experience.
Safety first
As with any physical activity or adventure sport, safety must be paramount.
It is likely that you will encounter wet and windy weather, especially during the winter months and early spring. Dress warmly and wear or carry at least one waterproof layer. Always wear a helmet. Do not go out on the trail if there are weather warnings or severe conditions. Let someone know where you are going to ride and carry a mobile phone or other means to call for help. Always carry a first aid kit and bike repair equipment, including a tyre pump, spare inner tubes, basic tools and puncture repair kit. Take a map, GPS, compass and plenty of water and high-energy snacks. Warm up before setting off.
A warm welcome
Finally, book your accommodation at Roundwood House to ensure a warm welcome and practical base for your mountain biking Slieve Bloom adventures.
Our comfortable rooms are the ideal place to get a good night’s sleep ahead of your ride, and to wash off the mud and dirt when you get back for the evening.
Our home cooked meals will restore your energy and warm your feet and hand while the friendly team will be waiting to hear all about your day in the mountains. Roundwood House is perfect for couples and families as well as larger mountain biking groups.
We can tell you about the local wildlife that you may encounter on the trails tool, as well as the best places locally to buy supplies or meet other mountain biking enthusiasts.
If you want to find out more about Roundwood House or want to contact us about availability please use the form HERE
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