Mountain biking in Southern Scotland is shifting up a gear with the opening of a new route at Glentrool, one of the 7stanes.

The 9.5km blue-graded loop is nearly all on purpose-built singletrack and features a host of berms and swoopy sections.

The trail which was recently officially opened, is the first trail to be completed under phase two of the 7stanes, which aims to widen the appeal of mountain biking and introduce beginners and families to the sport.

Colin Williamson, 7stanes project manager, said:

“Throughout the 7stanes project, our aim has been to put southern Scotland on the mountain bike map and encourage more people to take part in this exciting sport and healthy activity.”

“Mountain biking doesn’t need to be for the super fit and the second phase of the 7stanes project will see more trails for families and novice cyclists, which act as a fun introduction to mountain biking.”

The other main mountain bike trail at Glentrool is a 58km loop, on minor public and forest roads. With magnificent views of lochs and hills contrasting with sheltered woodlands, and some testing climbs and big descents. Glentrool also has a visitor centre with a cafe open from Easter to September.

The 7stanes project is being managed by Forestry Commission Scotland with partners Scottish Enterprise Dumfries & Galloway, Dumfries & Galloway Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Enterprise Borders, Scottish Borders Council, Solway Heritage, Scottish Power and Visit Scotland. The Scottish Association for Mental Health has also been supporting the project. The project receives half of its funding from Europe.

For more information on Forestry Commission Scotland’s mountain bike trails visit www.forestry.gov.uk/mtbscotland

In September 2007 (3-9), Forestry Commission Scotland’s Leanachan Forest, Fort William will be the venue of the first ever UCI Mountain Bike & Trials World Championships to be staged in the UK. More than 700 of the World’s top riders from more than 50 nations, will descend upon Scotland to compete across the four mountain bike disciplines of Cross Country, Downhill, 4-Cross and Trials for a total of 19 World Championship titles. For the latest Championship news and information as well as advanced ticket sales visit http://www.fortwilliamworldchamps.co.uk .

The 7stanes project is being managed by Forestry Commission Scotland with partners Scottish Enterprise Dumfries & Galloway, Dumfries & Galloway Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Enterprise Borders, Scottish Borders Council, Solway Heritage, Scottish Power and Visit Scotland. The Scottish Association for Mental Health has also been supporting the project. The project receives half of its funding from Europe.