The best cycling routes in Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve

There are over 50 touring cycling routes in Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy lakeside loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation changes across moorland and ancient woodlands.

The terrain varies significantly, offering a diverse cycling experience. You can find routes with mostly paved surfaces, ideal for easier rides, as well as more challenging options that include unpaved segments, gravel paths, and greater elevation gains. The landscape transitions from wide, wooded glades to steep-sided, craggy gorges and open moorland.

Yes, there are easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. A popular choice is the Siblyback Lake Trail loop - Cornwall and Bodmin Moor, which is mostly paved and takes about 25 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle ride around the scenic Siblyback Lake.

Beyond the natural beauty, the region offers interesting historical sites. You can find remnants of the Wheal Victoria copper mine beyond the waterfalls. Additionally, routes like The Hurlers Stone Circles – South Phoenix Mine Ruins loop from St. Cleer will take you past ancient stone circles and other historical mining ruins, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Siblyback Lake loop from St. Cleer is a moderate circular route offering scenic views, and the more challenging 14th Century Stone Bridge – Warleggan Village Sign loop from Dobwalls also forms a loop.

The reserve is famous for the dramatic Golitha Falls themselves, a series of cascades along the River Fowey, especially impressive after rainfall. You'll also cycle through ancient Draynes Wood with its oak and mixed ash trees. The entire area is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), so expect stunning river valleys, moorland plateaus, and diverse woodland scenery throughout your ride.

The touring cycling routes in Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to open moorland, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Yes, a free car park is available at Draynes Wood, which provides convenient access to the reserve and its cycling routes. This car park often includes facilities such as a cafe and toilets, and sometimes bike lock-up facilities.

The reserve offers beauty year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for cycling. In spring, the woodlands burst with wildflowers like bluebells and wood anemones. Autumn brings vibrant foliage. After heavy rainfall, the Golitha Falls are at their most spectacular. However, be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery paths in the immediate falls area during wet conditions, and dress appropriately for exposed moorland sections in any season.

Certainly. For a moderate challenge, consider the Siblyback Lake loop from St. Cleer, which covers about 20.7 km with varied elevation. Another good option is The Cheesewring – South Phoenix Mine Ruins loop from Darite, offering a rewarding ride through scenic landscapes.

Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for otters in the River Fowey, which also supports salmon and sea trout. The woodlands are home to dormice and various bat species, including noctule and brown long-eared bats. You might also spot a wide array of butterflies and moths, adding to the natural beauty of your ride.