MTB Trails at Cardinham Officially Opened
On 8th May Malcolm Bell, Head of Visit Cornwall, cut a ribbon to officially open the new cycle trails and improved facilities at Cardinham Woods.
Malcolm said: “This innovative Forestry Commission led development puts Cornwall on the map for adventurous cycling and delivers year-round tourism benefits away from the coast, whilst producing timber and a healthy environment from its woods”. Cycle counters have recorded over
4,000 rides, equivalent to 30,000 miles cycled on the Bodmin Beast trail in the past 2 months. Investment in the facilities was made by the Rural Development Programme for England through the 1 South West Partnership, developing the South West for high quality cycling adventures.
The ink is just drying on an exciting sponsorship deal with Silverfish UK, securing funds for the maintenance of the trails. Based in Saltash, Silverfish UK import an extensive range of the finest bikes, components and accessories from around the world, and have been since 1999.
Pete Drew, Marketing Manager of Silverfish UK, said “We’re very happy to see purpose-built off-road trails of this quality being constructed on our doorstep in Cornwall and are delighted to be able to support a development of this nature. Having accessible trails available in the area is an amazing asset and we hope our involvement will ensure they remain for visitors for many years to come.”
The new trails deliver health and wellbeing, economic growth and a positive focus for residents and visitors alike. At 12km, climbing and descending the valley sides, the main trail requires a good level of fitness and skill, and should not be attempted by inexperienced off-road cyclists. A wide mix of people have been enjoying the trail, from dads with their older children, a couple of gentlemen of 70+ years and keen female riders. The whole family can enjoy a full day out at Cardinham Woods for a small parking fee, all visitors are able to enjoy the walking trails and improved car park, toilets, play area and picnic area.
In addition, Woods Café provides a delightful welcome with local produce and home made food throughout the year. David & Lara Spurrell have built up an excellent reputation since taking over the business in November 2009. Coupled with the recent investment in facilities, the result has been their busiest trading period ever in the first part of 2013, demonstrating how a combination of quality products can bring true year-round benefits to the Cornish economy.
Lara said “The February half term and Easter breaks have been phenomenally busy, and Easter broke our takings record on three consecutive days! It’s been hard work to build up the business, but it is paying off and now we are seeing more visitors than ever enjoying these beautiful woods and coming to our café. The cycle trails have also broadened the range of people who step through our doors”.
Here at Adventure Cornwall, we have been out enjoying the new trails and can only say that it benefits Cornwall as a whole. Now there’s no need to ever leave the county!