| We're always being told to get out and about and | | | | surrounding areas to enjoy a nice bike ride on |
| get some more exercise. And there is no better | | | | your holiday in this area? Let's find out: |
| time to do this than when we are on holiday,doing | | | | 1. The Family Cycle Trail. As the name would |
| holiday activities. | | | | suggest this is perfect for the whole family to try. |
| It's better still when you are having a holiday in | | | | The route has plenty of great sights to see - you |
| the UK as you get the chance to explore some | | | | will be cycling on disused railway lines for starters |
| of the best UK countryside on your bike. The | | | | - and there are lots of nice places to stop and |
| Forest of Dean must surely be one of the best | | | | have a bite to eat too. Great for every age of |
| places to go in this respect, as it is simply | | | | rider, and the ground isn't too demanding either. |
| charming and has a lot to offer. | | | | 2. The Forest of Dean Cycling Association biking |
| If you are thinking about building some mountain | | | | trail. Don't attempt this one unless you love cycling |
| biking into your holiday in the Forest of Dean, | | | | and you know what you are doing off road. If |
| there are a few things you need to bear in mind | | | | this will be your first time on a dirt track with hills |
| before you go. Here are some pointers: | | | | and climbs then start off with something a little |
| 1. How fit are you? We all have an image of | | | | easier! |
| hopping on a bike and taking on the best and | | | | 3. Cycle routes round the Cotswold Water Park. If |
| most demanding trails there are with no bother at | | | | you are new to cycling and you want to get |
| all. But in reality if you haven't been out and about | | | | started on flatter ground, head for the Cotswold |
| on a bike for years you might struggle. Try and | | | | Water Park. This is perfect as you can cycle |
| get some practice in before you go. | | | | alongside the lakes. The only downside is if the |
| 2. Pick a route to suit your skills. We'll touch on a | | | | weather has been bad - be prepared to get |
| couple of good possibilities below, but do bear this | | | | muddy if this is the case! |
| in mind. A tough off road route isn't going to be | | | | These three top choices should get you started if |
| very enjoyable if you haven't cycled in years! | | | | you are heading to the Forest of Dean with your |
| 3. Think about the ages of the people in your | | | | mountain bike. Alternatively of course you can |
| party. If you have kids with you then pick an | | | | rent a bike while you are here, so you don't have |
| easier route that isn't as long as you might tackle | | | | to worry about taking yours along with you. |
| on your own. | | | | Are you thinking about getting in the saddle now? |
| So where can you go in the Forest of Dean and | | | | You should be - there is no better activity to try! |