The best cycling routes around St. Ives

There are over 30 touring cycling routes around St. Ives, catering to various skill levels. These include 12 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging options.

St. Ives offers a diverse range of terrain, from dramatic coastlines with rugged cliffs and golden beaches to serene moorland heaths and estuaries. You'll find routes winding past iconic spots like Porthmeor Beach and Clodgy Point, as well as paths through rural villages and ancient sites. Some routes, like the Ely Cathedral gravel loop from St Ives via the Busway cycle path, feature varied terrain with notable elevation changes.

Yes, St. Ives has several easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option is the St Ives Bridge and Chapel – St Ives Town Centre loop from St. Ives, which is 24.0 km long and offers views of the town center and local landmarks. Another easy route is the Fen Drayton Nature Reserve – Swavesey village loop from St. Ives, which is just under 12 km.

Many routes offer views of significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past the historic St Ives Bridge and Chapel, or explore areas near Houghton Mill. The Cambridge to St Ives Guided Busway Cycle Path is also a prominent feature. For nature lovers, routes often pass by lakes such as Far Fen Lake and Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, as well as the Godmanchester Nature Reserve.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in St. Ives are designed as loops. For instance, the St Ives Town Centre – St Ives Bridge and Chapel loop from The Thicket is a moderate 48.9 km route that takes you through local waterways and historical sites. The St Ives Town Centre – St Ives Quayside and Bridge loop from St. Ives is another easy circular option.

The touring cycling routes in St. Ives are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 79 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and St. Ives Bay, and the accessibility to charming villages and natural reserves.

Absolutely. St. Ives offers routes with significant elevation gains and varied terrain that can challenge experienced touring cyclists. The region's dramatic coastline and moorland heaths provide plenty of opportunities for more strenuous rides. There are 6 difficult routes available for those seeking a greater challenge.

Yes, the St. Ives area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. The RSPB Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve is a significant spot for birdwatching, and many routes pass through or near nature reserves. For example, the Fen Drayton Nature Reserve – Swavesey village loop from St. Ives takes you close to the Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve, offering chances to observe local flora and fauna.

Yes, due to the region's hilly terrain, e-bike rentals are readily available in St. Ives. This makes the more challenging routes accessible to a wider range of cyclists, allowing everyone to enjoy the breathtaking views and diverse landscapes without excessive strain. Guided e-bike tours are also offered, exploring hidden viewpoints and coastal scenery.

St. Ives offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and often fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the coastal paths and moorlands. Summer is popular for its long daylight hours and warmer weather, though routes can be busier. Even in winter, some routes remain accessible, offering a different, often dramatic, perspective of the Cornish landscape.

While St. Michael's Mount is a significant landmark in Cornwall, the touring cycling routes specifically listed in this guide for St. Ives (Cambridgeshire) focus on the local area around St. Ives. However, the broader region of Cornwall, where the famous St. Michael's Mount is located, offers many cycling opportunities with stunning coastal views.