Want model trails? Livigno has become a silver level IMBA Ride Centre. And we're not surprised, we have always known Livigno's potential and every year it gets better and better!

"Long known has a highlight on trans-Alps routes, Livigno and the surrounding area has more than 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers) of mapped trails — it's possible to ride for weeks without even scratching the surface. In 2009, Livigno built the first IMBA-designated "Flow Country" trail, and plans are underway to build many more such purpose-built bike trails in upcoming years. The small town offers shopping (duty free), diverse accommodations and plenty of other activities. Trail maps, guided tours, retail and rental bike shops, bike instruction schools, a pump track, circuits for kids, and shuttle service to nearby rides, such as the IMBA Epic Bernina Express."

Check out the full article here:

Having moved to Bristol in the UK I wanted to take advantage of the strong biking scene here as a way to get fit in time for the 2014 season. With alledgedly the worst traffic outside London, driving is a nightmare and biking has become such a popular way to commute. So I bought a road bike and some new gear and started riding to work two weeks ago. The ride to work is fabulous. 3 miles virtually all down hill. 10 minutes door to door. Result. The way home is a slightly different story. I work at the lowest point in the city and live at the highest. Cue burning thighs and bad helmet hair on my return home.

I hate hills. I love nothing more than a sweeping downhill off road, I just hate the climb to get there. But slowly, day by day I am finding that a daily commute is a great way to build of strength and stamina without you really noticing the effort. I love maximum output for minimum effort wherever possible.

I am blessed to have Ashton Court and Leigh Woods so close to hand to get some off road practice in. And with Wales and the Forest of Dean on the doorstep, I am looking forward to getting to know this part of the world. On my bike. Preferably  downhill with a pint waiting at the end.

So bring on 2014 in Livigno. I am already in ‘training’. 

Nic xx