The best traffic-free bike rides around Sidmouth

Sidmouth offers nearly 30 dedicated touring cycling routes that prioritize minimal traffic, allowing you to explore the East Devon National Landscape and Jurassic Coast with peace of mind. These routes range from easy riverside paths to more challenging coastal climbs.

Yes, Sidmouth has several easy, traffic-free options. The Byes Cycle Route, following the River Sid, is particularly popular for its flat, off-road path. For a slightly longer, easy loop, consider the River Sid Ford – Salcombe Hill Cliff loop from Salcombe Regis, which offers a gentle introduction to the area's beauty.

You'll experience diverse and stunning scenery. Routes often traverse the tranquil River Otter Valley, offering lush green landscapes, and provide glimpses of the dramatic Jurassic Coast with its iconic red cliffs. Inland, you might encounter rolling hills and quaint villages within the East Devon National Landscape. Many routes offer expansive coastal vistas, especially from higher points like Salcombe Hill.

Many of the traffic-free paths around Sidmouth, especially those away from busy roads, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a lead where necessary. The Byes Cycle Route along the River Sid is a good option for a leisurely ride with your canine companion. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas like the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The vibrant spring blooms and the rich colours of autumn foliage enhance the scenic beauty. Summer is also popular, but routes can be busier, especially coastal paths. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and windy weather, particularly on exposed coastal sections.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For a moderate challenge, the White Cross Viewpoint – Chineway Hill loop from Sidmouth College offers a good circular option with varied terrain. Always check the route details on komoot for specific start/end points and loop configurations.

You can discover several points of interest. The River Otter and its estuary are prominent features, offering wildlife spotting opportunities. You might also pass near the dramatic Ladram Bay Sea Stacks or the historic Woodbury Castle — Iron Age hillfort. The Donkey Sanctuary, located on National Cycle Network Route 2, is also a popular destination accessible by bike.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the riverside paths like the Byes, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels while keeping traffic to a minimum. The blend of natural beauty and well-maintained paths is frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, the Salcombe Hill Cliff – River Otter Bike Path loop from Sidmouth is a difficult 51.8 km route featuring significant elevation changes and expansive coastal views. These routes often include climbs up hills like Peak Hill and Salcombe Hill Cliff, rewarding cyclists with panoramic vistas.

Sidmouth offers various public car parks throughout the town, many of which are conveniently located near the start of popular routes like the Byes. For public transport, local bus services connect Sidmouth to nearby towns, and some routes may allow bikes, though it's always best to check with the operator beforehand. The town's central location makes many routes accessible directly from Sidmouth itself.

Sidmouth and the surrounding villages offer numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. The town's esplanade and high street have a wide selection of eateries. Many routes, especially those following river valleys or passing through villages, will have opportunities for refreshments. It's advisable to plan your stops in advance, particularly on longer or more remote routes.

Yes, the region is well-known for its beautiful river valleys. The Byes Cycle Route is a dedicated traffic-free path that closely follows the River Sid. For the River Otter, you can explore routes like the River Otter at Ottery St Mary – The Tea Station loop from Sidmouth, which winds through the picturesque valley, offering tranquil riverside cycling.