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Great cycle routes in Devon

28th January 2019

Categories: Visitor News

Whether you got a new bike for Christmas and have been waiting for better weather to give it a spin or you’re a keen cyclist looking for somewhere to explore on two wheels, you need to get yourself to Devon, it’s a treasure trove of cycle routes! Even if you don’t have a bike of your own, you don’t have to feel left out, you’ll find bike hire companies all across Devon!

We all know that Devon is a beautiful place to be, there are the amazing coastline, the moorland, the fields, the towns and cities, the historic atmosphere, the wildlife, the cream tea… the list of reasons why you should visit Devon are endless, but have you ever considered taking a cycling holiday in Devon?

Cycling holidays in Devon are perfect, whatever your circumstances. Trying to get fit? A seasoned pro? Just want something to keep the kids amused? There are plenty of cycle routes and they suit a whole range of abilities and can offer everything from a gentle ride to a challenging race.

Image - The Granite Way

For those of you wanting to get the entire family involved there are routes all over the county that range from a few miles to more than twenty. In south Devon, there is the Granite Way cycle route which is rated by families because it is largely off road and moderate in difficulty. Visitors to the south of the county can also explore the Devon Coast to Coast Route 27 which will open up Dartmoor for you to enjoy.

Another route that is good for children is the Tamar Trails, there is even a centre there that provides bike hire with bikes in all sizes, so if you’ve turned up on a whim with small children, there will be chance for them to join in too.

Image by Haldon Forest Park

Haldon Forest Park, which is near Exeter, has lots of great off road cycling routes that are great for families. Their Discover Trail is good for young cyclists as its less than two miles and features lots of fun activities along the way.
Don’t worry though, there are also trails for more advanced riders and anyone looking for more of a challenge!

Also in the Exeter region is the Exe Estuary Trail, it is a level route that is virtually traffic free making it an ideal spot for anyone with kids or less confident riders. Plus it’s very scenic you pass through Exeter Quay, canals, the RSPB reserves and locks.

The Tarka Trail, perhaps one of Devon’s most famous spots, is a good one for the kids. It follows disused railway lines and is all off road. It is a long one at 32 miles, but there are plenty of opportunities to join the route or to stop off and head somewhere else.
In Plymouth you’ll find the Plym Valley Cycle Trail which will take you from Clearbrook to Plymouth. The trail stretches for seven miles and takes you through the wilds of Dartmoor.

Image - The Grand Western Canal

For gentle cycling routes, with or without children, there are a whole host of options. Including the Stover Trail which connects Newton Abbot to Bovey Tracey, it is completely flat and has some lovely views so is perfect for taking your time. Another choice is the eleven mile Grand Western Canal route from Tiverton. The Canal is a good tourist spot and you’ll find plenty to do on a leisurely cycle through the town and along the canal.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, or you’re cycling without children, there are some incredible tours for you to explore. There is a course that will take you from Ilfracombe to Plymouth, stretching over 100 miles, which can be enjoyed over several days or through the night if you’re really into pushing yourself!
The Dartmoor Way Cycle is another great route taking in 95 miles of beautiful Dartmoor countryside. It is mostly through country lanes and off road, but there are some particularly challenging parts to the route so make sure you know your limits.

For those of you that really want to crack up those miles, the West Country Way goes through Devon, starting in Bristol it goes all the way down to Padstow taking you through sections of the Tarka Trail and the Grand Western Canal as you work your way through Devon.

Do you have any favourite cycling routes in Devon? Or are you going to give any of these suggestions a go? Make sure to tag us in your pictures, you can find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.