Woodland Spirit Llynfi happy trails
Running routes is fast becoming one of the most popular activities among new and experienced athletes athletes alike and here in Wales we are fortunate to have some of the most challenging tracks in the UK – which has some of the scenes most beautiful too.
Many of them are found in central and northern Wales but there is no need to worry as there are three runners southern route recently opened Woodland Spirit Llynfi near Maesteg.
Geminie Drinkwater explained, environment officer in Wales Natural Wealth:
"From the outset, the driving force behind the project was Llynfi Spirit health and well being of the surrounding communities as well as environmental benefits such as reducing the risk of floods and promote biodiversity.
"Research by Public Health Wales that your healthy life expectancy, if you are over 50 and live in this area, is 20 years less than if you were a living just nine miles away at Pen-y-bont Bridgend.
"People already enjoy walking and cycling routes and the routes run in addition to being welcomed this wonderful green space."
Runners can choose from routes 5km, 3km and 1km long. Both routes waymarks and are suitable for a range of abilities and fitness levels.
The trails include forest roads, tarmac path and a short section of single-track road, with occasional mud and rocks and a variety of gradients depending on the level of difficulty of the route.
Geminie added:
"Natural Wealth developed in partnership with Running routes Welsh Government, Sustrans and Bridgend County Borough Council Bridgend and the project is being funded in part by a grant 'Change for the Better' Association of Voluntary Organizations administered by Pen -the Bridgend.
"The inspiration for the running trails Woodland Spirit Llynfi have come from the community and it's about bringing people and nature closer together and ensure that people are actively involved in the country that their doorstep. "
