The best gravel rides around Aylesbeare

There are over 20 gravel bike trails available around Aylesbeare, offering a diverse range of experiences for different skill levels.

The trails around Aylesbeare offer a good mix of difficulty. You'll find 1 easy route, 8 moderate routes, and 11 more challenging routes, ensuring options for all experience levels.

Yes, for a family-friendly and predominantly flat experience, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk – View over the Exe Estuary loop from Bicton is an excellent choice. This 27.5 km route is well-surfaced and offers fantastic views along the River Exe, suitable for all types of bikes and skill levels.

For a longer ride, consider the challenging Hawkerland Bridleway – Mutters Moor loop from Colaton Raleigh, which spans over 38 km. The broader East Devon Trail, though not a single komoot route, is a significant 185 km bikepacking route traversing rural and coastal landscapes, offering extensive gravel sections.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths – East Devon Way loop from Colaton Raleigh is a moderate 11.8 km circular trail that takes you through the protected East Devon Pebblebed Heaths.

The trails often pass through the unique East Devon Pebblebed Heaths, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You might encounter diverse wildlife on Aylesbeare Common, and some routes offer views towards the Jurassic Coast. Specific highlights include the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve and the historic Woodbury Castle — Iron Age hillfort.

Many trails on Woodbury Common offer scenic climbs with views of the sea. The Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk – View over the Exe Estuary loop from Bicton provides fantastic views along the River Exe. For coastal vistas, consider routes near Ladram Bay Sea Stacks or Budleigh Salterton Beach.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 19 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from heathlands and woodlands to coastal paths, and the varied terrain found on routes like those around Woodbury Common.

Woodbury Common is frequently highlighted for its excellent gravel trails and singletrack sections, with some routes presenting technical challenges due to loose rocks and steep gradients. Areas like the Woodbury Common Perimeter Singletrack offer a more demanding experience.

Aylesbeare offers good gravel biking opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter conditions can be wet, the well-drained pebblebed heathlands can still be enjoyable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While Aylesbeare itself is a rural village, routes like the Exe Estuary Trail are easily accessible by public transport, linking towns such as Exmouth, Exeter, and Dawlish, which have train and bus connections. For other trails, planning your journey to nearby towns or parking areas is recommended.

Parking is generally available at various access points to the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths and Woodbury Common. Specific car parks can be found near popular starting points for routes, though it's always advisable to check for designated parking areas before your ride.