Nevis Range to launch new mountain bike trail this summer

Nevis Range has unveiled several new projects for this summer season.

The mountain resort will enhance its offering with a new blue-accessed gondola trail that, once complete, will be the UK’s longest uplift-accessed mountain bike trail.

A new controlled entry car parking system will also be installed, which will allow visitors the option to pre-purchase parking passes online.

The income generated from the car park will be reinvested back into the company for future projects.

The new improvements come after working with economic and community development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Over the last three years HIE funding has helped aid the development of an artificial snow-making plant that will guarantee start and finish dates for winter seasons going forward.

Further support has also allowed the purchase of two new PistenBully machines for the mountain that will help ensure that snow conditions are optimal throughout the season.

Chris O’Brien, managing director for Nevis Range, said: “The last 14 months has been an incredibly difficult period for us as we have attempted to navigate our way through the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Over the years HIE has been fundamental to the success of Nevis Range in establishing itself as a thriving year-round business and the support has allowed us to make some fantastic investments that will safeguard our winter and summer seasons for years to come.

“We are pleased to be working with HIE once again and look forward to welcoming back visitors in the weeks and months to come.”

Alastair Nicolson, HIE area manager for Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross, added: “Tourism has been one of the hardest hit sectors over the course of the global pandemic.

“Now that restrictions are easing there has been an upsurge in the amount of people opting to take holidays closer to home and Nevis Range will be an attractive location for people from across the UK.

“We have worked closely with Nevis Range for a number of years now with the range of summer and winter activities on offer at the mountain resort an important element of the tourism sector in Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross.

“We are delighted to be able to support the latest developments at Nevis Range which will help continue to enhance the area’s appeal as an adventure tourism destination.”