First 20km of Slieve Bloom MBT now open

Coillte opened the first phase of its mountain bike trail centre (MTB) in the Slieve Blooms over the Christmas period and saw what it describes as "very significant numbers of riders travel to the area".

The trail network covers both the Laois and Offaly side of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and in this phase, just over 20kms are now open to the public. The construction works will continue over the next 2-3 years to fully develop 100kms of mountain bike trails and these will range from entry-level ‘Blue’ grade trails to ‘Red’ and ‘Black’ grade trails, aimed at the abilities of more accomplished riders. A full range of visitor facilities at two trailheads (Kinnitty in Offaly and Baunreagh in Laois) will also be developed with services such as; public toilets, showers, café, bike hire, servicing and retail areas.

Coillte’s Head of Recreation, Daithi de Forge said: “The development of the MTB trail centre in the Slieve Blooms is one of five national-scale centres currently under design and construction. Our aim is to set Ireland as a destination for overseas riders, coming here to experience the very best-in-class trails accompanied with the visitor services and facilities synonymous with the world’s best MTB destinations.

“Kinnitty village was testament to that local ‘buzz’ and lots of visitor activity over the recent holiday break – this is just a glimpse of what these trail centres will bring to local towns and villages.”

All the information on the trails, where to go and where to start in the Slieve Blooms is on Coillte’s website.