The best cycling routes around Dozmary Pool

The touring cycling routes around Dozmary Pool primarily traverse the rugged, open moorland of Bodmin Moor, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You'll encounter quiet country lanes, impressive vistas, and varied terrain, ranging from relatively flat sections around lakes to more challenging ascents and descents across the moor.

Yes, while many routes on Bodmin Moor are moderate to difficult, there are easier options. For instance, the Siblyback Lake Trail loop - Cornwall and Bodmin Moor is an easy 4.6 km (2.9 miles) route that offers a pleasant ride around the lake, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous experience.

Cyclists can enjoy a wealth of natural beauty and historical landmarks. You'll pass by Dozmary Pool itself, known for its mythical connections, and the larger Colliford Lake. Routes also lead to significant sites like the ancient Hurlers Stone Circles and the picturesque Golitha Falls. Views of prominent Cornish hills, such as Brown Willy, are also accessible from nearby areas.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Dozmary Pool are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Golitha Falls – Colliford Lake loop from Cornwall National Landscape and the Colliford Lake – Jamaica Inn loop from Temple, offering diverse scenery and points of interest.

The best time to cycle around Dozmary Pool is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, Bodmin Moor can be exposed and windy, so be prepared for changeable conditions regardless of the season. Autumn can also offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

While specific cycling routes may have restrictions, the general area of Bodmin Moor is very open and welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock. Many of the quiet country lanes are suitable for cycling with a dog running alongside (if well-trained) or in a trailer. Always check local signage for specific rules on trails.

The famous Jamaica Inn, a short distance from Dozmary Pool, offers refreshments and accommodation, making it a popular stop for cyclists. Additionally, the Colliford Tavern, located at the northern end of Colliford Lake, provides refreshments, including cream teas with lake views, and also offers accommodation and a campsite, which are convenient for touring cyclists.

Routes vary significantly in length and elevation. You can find shorter, easier loops like the 4.6 km (2.9 miles) Siblyback Lake Trail loop with minimal elevation gain. More challenging routes, such as the The Hurlers Stone Circles – Golitha Falls loop, can be around 44 km (27.5 miles) with over 750 meters (2,460 feet) of elevation gain, offering a significant workout across the moorland.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the serene natural beauty, the quiet country lanes, and the sense of solitude found on Bodmin Moor. The blend of rugged landscapes, mythical connections, and opportunities to spot wildlife are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.

Public transport options directly to Dozmary Pool are limited due to its remote location on Bodmin Moor. It is generally more accessible by car, with parking available at various points around the moor. However, some regional bus services might connect to larger towns on the periphery of Bodmin Moor, from where you could cycle in.

Yes, Dozmary Pool serves as a good base to access several established cycling routes. Cyclists can connect to trails like the Camelford Way, the Copper Trail, and the popular Camel Trail. The North Cornwall Trail also passes through Bodmin Moor, offering a 40.5-mile route primarily on roads. For more information on the North Cornwall Trail, you can visit cornwall.gov.uk.

The touring cycling routes around Dozmary Pool offer a range of difficulty levels. Out of 15 routes, 9 are classified as difficult, 5 as moderate, and 1 as easy. This means that while there are options for all abilities, many routes involve significant elevation changes and cover longer distances across the open moorland, requiring a good level of fitness.