GORTIN GLEN FOREST PARK

Northern Ireland’s newest trail centre, Gortin’s hilly character means you have to earn your turns – and some epic views. Both of its trails have lots of smooth, flowy sections, making them a heap of fun at speed, but also ideal for less experienced riders wanting an introduction to mountain biking. With spectacular views from the top of Mullaghcarn and Ladies Viewpoint (as long as there’s no Irish mist!), you can rest awhile after the climb to soak up the Sperrins. You’ll find Gortin Glen six miles north of Omagh, at the western gateway to the mountains. It also has several waymarked walks plus a play park and barbecue area to occupy non-riders and entertain the rest of the family.

Blue 7.1km

A gradual climb from the car park on a shared fireroad brings you to a junction where you can choose from one of two blue options. You’ll either turn left and join the ‘Roller Coaster’ – a section where you can pick up some real speed through the forest until some small turns and features near the bottom – or you can opt for ‘Kelan’s Chase’, where you’ll encounter another climb towards Ladies Viewpoint before a long descent filled with fast, flowy, tight corners and a few short pedally sections.

Red 6.5km

The main red section is where you’ll earn those views. Climb out of the bottom car park through the glen until you reach the Mullaghcarn ascent. From here it’s another short, sharp ascent that rewards you for your efforts with incredible views of the Sperrins. Take a moment to enjoy them before dropping onto ‘The Mountain’ – a flowy cascade of berms and switchbacks that leads into a super-fast and open trail. After some tight corners, you’ll rejoin the forest on ‘Sika’s Run’ with a series of moderate rock drops and steep descents, before emerging at the car park.