The best MTB trails in Tamar Valley Aonb

There are over 100 mountain bike trails to explore in Tamar Valley AONB, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, family-friendly routes to more challenging ascents.

The Tamar Valley offers a diverse landscape for mountain biking. You'll encounter deep river valleys, steep wooded slopes, and remnants of its rich mining heritage. The terrain varies from gentle riverside paths to granite ridges with a moorland character, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites.

Yes, the Tamar Valley AONB has a good selection of easy and family-friendly routes. For example, the Cann Viaduct – Plym Valley Trail Tunnel loop from Milton Combe is an easy 23.6 km trail that takes you past interesting historical features. The dedicated off-road trails at Tamar Trails also offer gentle, compacted stone tracks suitable for families and mixed-ability groups.

The region is rich in both natural beauty and historical sites. You can spot impressive structures like the Calstock Viaduct, explore mining heritage sites such as the Wheal Anna Maria Calciner Complex, or enjoy panoramic views from the Kit Hill Trig Point. The confluence of the Rivers Walkham and Tavy at Double Waters is also a beautiful spot.

Many of the mountain bike routes in the Tamar Valley AONB are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Mineral Railway and Wheal Maria Loop, a moderate 17.4 km trail that explores historical mining landscapes.

The mountain bike trails in Tamar Valley AONB are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich mining heritage, and the variety of terrain that caters to different skill levels.

Absolutely. Many routes provide stunning vistas across the valley. The Blanchdown Wood – View from Blanchdown Wood loop from Gunnislake is a popular moderate route specifically known for its expansive views from Blanchdown Wood.

The Tamar Valley AONB is enjoyable for mountain biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summers are generally mild, while winters can be damp but still offer opportunities for riding, especially on the more established trails like those at Tamar Trails.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, there are several options. The View of Burrator Reservoir – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Tamerton Foliot is a moderate 40.5 km route that takes you around the scenic Burrator Reservoir, offering a good challenge and beautiful views.

The Tamar Valley is well-equipped for cyclists. A major draw is the Tamar Trails, an outdoor activity center offering 25 km of dedicated off-road mountain biking trails. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, the Gawton Gravity Hub is a world-renowned downhill riding center.

Yes, the Tamar Valley AONB is a haven for wildlife. Its rivers and woodlands are home to species like kingfishers, otters, bats, and various birds. Riding through the quieter, wooded sections or along the riverbanks increases your chances of spotting local fauna.