The best road cycling routes around The Outwoods

The Outwoods and the surrounding Charnwood Forest area offer a wide selection of road cycling routes. You can find nearly 400 routes, catering to various skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides.

Road cycling routes in the Charnwood Forest area, including The Outwoods, feature a diverse landscape. You'll encounter ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and unique geological formations. The routes often incorporate picturesque reservoirs like Cropston and Swithland. Most roads are quiet and largely paved, offering a good surface for road bikes, though some may include unpaved sections.

Yes, there are plenty of options for less experienced cyclists and families. Over 130 easy routes are available, often on quiet, mostly paved roads. These routes provide gentle hills and scenic views, perfect for a leisurely ride.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the Charnwood Forest area offers routes with significant climbs and exhilarating descents, particularly around Beacon Hill. There are 16 difficult routes available, designed to test your endurance.

Road cycling routes often pass by significant natural features. You can expect to see ancient woodlands, pre-Cambrian rocky outcrops, and scenic reservoirs such as Cropston Reservoir and Swithland Reservoir. Beacon Hill also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Yes, for stunning vistas, many routes incorporate Beacon Hill, where the summit provides extensive views of the Charnwood Forest and beyond. Swithland Reservoir also offers particularly noted scenic views along its tree-lined stretches.

The road cycling routes around The Outwoods are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 6,700 road cyclists have explored this area, often praising the varied terrain and scenic beauty.

A popular moderate route that includes a reservoir is the Thornton Reservoir – Sharply Hill Road Climb loop from Woodhouse. This 21.1-mile path includes a significant climb and offers views of Thornton Reservoir.

For a route that takes you through scenic woodland, consider the The Labyrinth – Path to Swithland Woods loop from Loughborough University. This 13.7-mile trail leads through the picturesque area near Swithland Woods.

For a longer ride, the Quiet Road to Wymeswold – Barrow Bridge loop from Woodhouse is a great option. This moderate route covers over 28 miles (46.3 km) and offers a substantial cycling experience.

Yes, you can enjoy views of Cropston Reservoir on routes like the View of Cropston Reservoir – Barrow Bridge loop from Loughborough Grammar School. This easy 19.2-mile (30.9 km) route is perfect for taking in the scenery.

The Charnwood Forest area is beautiful year-round, but springtime is particularly vibrant with displays of bluebells and wood anemones. The open roads tend to be quiet, especially on Sunday mornings, making it a pleasant experience during warmer months.

The charming villages nestled within Charnwood Forest often feature local cafes and pubs, providing convenient stops for refreshments during your ride. While specific establishments aren't listed, the area is known for its welcoming atmosphere for cyclists.