The best gravel rides around Stour Provost

There are 18 gravel bike routes available around Stour Provost. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate loops to more challenging rides with greater elevation gain.

Gravel biking around Stour Provost offers varied terrain. You'll find quiet country lanes, wide 'champagne gravel' paths, and some chalky ridge-line trails. The North Dorset Trailway, a significant feature, provides a mix of mostly flat, traffic-free sections, with surfaces ranging from self-compacting gravel to partially tarred, smooth sections.

Yes, the North Dorset Trailway is ideal for gravel bikes. This 14-mile linear route, largely following an old railway line, offers a mostly flat, traffic-free path through beautiful countryside and woodlands. While some sections are smooth, others are self-compacting gravel, making it well-suited for gravel bikes.

Yes, several circular routes incorporate sections of the North Dorset Trailway and explore the surrounding Blackmore Vale. For example, the North Dorset Trailway – Hodway Lane Trail Intersection loop from Shillingstone is a moderate 15.4-mile (24.7 km) circular trail.

The routes around Stour Provost cater to various skill levels. You'll find 12 moderate routes and 5 more difficult options. For instance, the Hodway Lane Trail Intersection – North Dorset Trailway loop from Sturminster Newton is considered moderate, while the Ox Drove Gravel Road – Gold Hill, Shaftesbury loop from Shaftesbury is a more challenging, difficult route with significant elevation gain.

Yes, the North Dorset Trailway is particularly suitable for families due to its mostly flat, traffic-free nature. It offers a safe and enjoyable cycling experience through scenic countryside. For more information on family cycling along the Trailway, you can visit Visit Dorset's blog.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You'll cycle through the scenic Blackmore Vale, alongside the meandering River Stour, and past peaceful woodlands. Notable landmarks and viewpoints include the Iron Age hill fort at Hambledon Hill, the historic Win Green Summit, and Melbury Beacon, offering stunning views.

Parking is available at various access points along the North Dorset Trailway. For example, routes often start from towns like Sturminster Newton or Shillingstone, which typically offer parking facilities. Shillingstone also features a restored station with amenities, making it a convenient starting point.

While Stour Provost itself is a small village, nearby towns like Sturminster Newton and Shillingstone, which are key access points for the North Dorset Trailway, may offer better public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus services for routes connecting to these towns.

The Blackmore Vale and North Dorset Trailway are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, though some sections might be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddier conditions on unpaved sections.

The North Dorset Trailway is generally dog-friendly, making it a great option for cyclists who want to bring their canine companions. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially around other users and wildlife, and to adhere to any local signage regarding dog policies.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 8 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful countryside of the Blackmore Vale, and the accessible sections of the North Dorset Trailway, which offer a rewarding experience for different skill levels.