The best road cycling routes around Devon

Devon offers a diverse landscape for road cyclists. You'll find everything from the dramatic granite tors and expansive moorland of Dartmoor National Park to the steep coastal cliffs and wooded valleys of Exmoor. The region is characterized by rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and several Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain and elevation changes.

Yes, Devon is well-known for its challenging climbs. For experienced cyclists seeking a test, numerous stiff gradients await. Notable climbs include Haytor Vale, Widecombe Hill, and Rundlestone in Dartmoor, which have featured in professional races. Salcombe Hill near Sidmouth and Challacombe Hill near Croyde also offer significant challenges with steep inclines. Exmoor provides demanding climbs, with routes to Dunkery Beacon offering exhilarating descents.

While Devon has many challenging routes, there are also options suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The region offers routes with varied landscapes, including quieter country lanes and dedicated cycle paths. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail is a scenic 16-mile, mainly level route along both sides of the Exe Estuary, ideal for a relaxed experience.

Road cycling in Devon offers breathtaking scenery. You can expect panoramic views across expansive moorland in Dartmoor and Exmoor, dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves along the English Riviera and Jurassic Coast. Picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and tranquil river valleys are also common. Routes like the 'Devon Delight' audax traverse the Haldon hills, Ashcombe valley, and River Exe coastline, offering diverse beauty.

Yes, several routes pass by or near interesting landmarks. For instance, the Knox Covered Bridge – National Memorial Arch loop from Strafford takes you past the National Memorial Arch. The View from Sullivan's Bridge – National Memorial Arch loop from Daylesford also offers views of the National Memorial Arch. You might also encounter historical sites like Ruins along some paths.

Devon's diverse landscapes are enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time for road cycling is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally milder, and the natural beauty of the national parks, coastlines, and countryside is at its peak. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions, especially in exposed moorland areas.

Devon is home to several excellent long-distance routes. The Devon Coast to Coast is a 99-mile route connecting Ilfracombe to Plymouth. The Dartmoor Way is a 95-mile circular route around Dartmoor National Park, primarily using quiet Devon lanes. These routes offer opportunities for multi-day adventures, allowing you to explore different parts of the region.

Yes, Devon offers many circular road cycling routes. The Dartmoor Way is a prominent 95-mile circular route that navigates around Dartmoor National Park. Additionally, many local loops, such as those around Moretonhampstead, Bovey Tracey, and the Teign Valley in Dartmoor, or coastal roads around Exmouth and Sidmouth, provide excellent circular cycling experiences.

Yes, Devon is well-equipped with traffic-free and quieter routes, ideal for more relaxed rides or families. The Tarka Trail is an entirely traffic-free, 32-mile trail in North Devon. The Exe Estuary Trail is a scenic 16-mile, mainly level route. Drake's Trail and the Granite Way also offer mostly traffic-free sections, making them great choices for family outings.

Many of Devon's road cycling routes are accessible by public transport, particularly those connecting towns and cities. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail connects Exeter and Exmouth, both with good transport links. Parking is often available at trailheads or in nearby towns for routes like the Tarka Trail or Dartmoor Way. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient access points.

The road cycling routes in Devon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging moorland climbs to scenic coastal roads and tranquil river valleys. The extensive network of quiet country lanes and dedicated cycle paths, combined with the region's natural beauty, makes it a favorite destination.

Yes, for those preferring entirely traffic-free experiences, the Tarka Trail in North Devon is a 32-mile route from Braunton to Meeth, offering picturesque views. The Exe Estuary Trail is another excellent option, providing a scenic 16-mile, mainly level route along both sides of the Exe Estuary, connecting Exeter to Exmouth and Dawlish.