Cycling is fast-becoming one of the most popular activities in the UK. More people are getting pedalling than ever before, with over two million people now cycling at least once a week.
Not only is cycling a great way of getting fit, it’s affordable and one of the best ways to meet likeminded people as most towns now have dedicated clubs or groups.
The South West has some of the best routes available, so we’ve compiled a list of some of our top cycling trails across Devon and Cornwall…
Camel Trail, North Cornwall
The Camel Trail is one of the most well-known routes in the South West and stretches from Padstow to Wenfordbridge via the former railway line.
The trail is broken down into three stages, but if you’re feeling adventurous why not complete all three! The stages are:
• Padstow to Wadebridge (5.5 miles)
• Wadebridge to Bodmin (5.75 miles)
• Bodmin to Wenfordbridge (6.25 miles)
Enjoy the trail, from woodland to the coastal delights of the Camel Estuary. Take a break at some of North Cornwall’s finest vineyards along the way and enjoy some spectacular scenery.
Tarka Trail, North Devon
Moving on from North Cornwall to North Devon, the Tarka Trail is next on our list. The 30-mile route is one of the country’s longest traffic-free trails and features fantastic views of the Taw Estuary.
Start the route at either Braunton or Meeth and cycle as far as you want, at your own leisurely pace. Whether you’re an avid cycler or looking for a gentle ride, this well-surfaced route is flat and caters for all abilities.
For more information visit https://www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map/route/tarka-trail
Granite Way, Okehampton
One of the closest trails to MiHi Digital HQ, the Granite Way is a multi-use trail which runs along the former railway line between Okehampton and Lydford.
The majority of the 11-mile route is off-road and encompasses delightful views of Dartmoor and wooded valleys.
The easy-cycling trail is accessible for all, with surfaced paths and good transport links; via train and car.
You can find out more about the route here.
Ruby Way – Westcountry Way, Devon
Head into rural Devon and ride the Ruby Way. Starting from Holsworthy, explore in and around surrounding villages.
The more challenging-route covers 15-miles via country lanes and some off-road sections, meandering through quaint hamlets and past wildlife-packed hedgerows.
The circular route brings you back to the beginning at The Viaduct Café, where you can replenish after a challenging cycle.
If you decided to give the route a go, we’d recommend downloading the map which is available from here: https://www.ridetherubycountry.co.uk/ruby-country-activities/cycling/
Lanhydrock, Bodmin
Pack up a picnic and prepare to pedal around the area of Cornwall’s finest stately homes.
Explore Lanhydrock’s woodland estate by bicycle via one of the many trails which are suitable for all abilities. The trails range from easy to hard and vary in lengths so there’s something to suit everyone.
The National Trust has created a cyclist’s-dream by clearly marking the routes and installing cycle-hire and café facilities.
You can find full details and a map from the National Trust website.
