The best cycling routes around Payhembury

There are over 260 touring cycling routes around Payhembury, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. Approximately 50 are considered easy, 147 moderate, and 70 difficult.

The routes around Payhembury feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, picturesque river valleys (including the River Otter), and ancient woodlands. You'll find a mix of challenging climbs and gentle descents, with many routes utilizing mostly paved surfaces. The area is also bordered by the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing varied terrain.

Yes, Payhembury offers around 50 easy touring cycling routes. These often follow river paths, such as sections along the River Otter, which provide more moderate rides with mostly paved surfaces. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed, the easier options are generally suitable for those with less experience or looking for a relaxed ride.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, there are approximately 70 difficult touring cycling routes. These routes often involve significant elevation gains, such as the River Sid Ford – Byes Toll House, Sidmouth loop from Feniton, which features over 500 meters of elevation gain over 38 kilometers.

Many routes pass by significant historical and natural landmarks. You can explore ancient woodlands around Hembury Fort, a prehistoric hillfort, or visit Pixie's Parlour Cave on the River Otter. Other notable spots include Harpford Woods with its tall trees and fern-filled environment, and the historic St Mary's Church and Hemyock Castle. For more information on Hembury Fort, you can visit Devon County Council's website.

Yes, the region boasts several stunning viewpoints. High points in the landscape offer panoramic vistas, such as the View from Fire Beacon Hill, which provides superb views across the south coast, including Lyme Bay and Berry Head on clear days. Hembury Fort, situated on a 240-meter ridge, also offers excellent vantage points.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Payhembury are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular River Otter Bike Path – Budleigh Salterton Beach loop from Feniton and the River Otter at Ottery St Mary – Talaton Pub loop from Feniton.

Routes vary significantly. Easy routes might cover 10-20 kilometers with minimal elevation, while moderate routes often range from 25-45 kilometers with 300-400 meters of elevation gain, like the Killerton Parkland Bridleway – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Feniton. Difficult routes can exceed 40 kilometers and feature over 500 meters of climbing.

Yes, many routes are designed to pass through or near charming villages, providing opportunities for stops at local pubs and cafes. For instance, the River Otter at Ottery St Mary – Talaton Pub loop from Feniton explicitly mentions a pub stop, and the The Six Bells Inn – Talaton Pub loop from Feniton also includes a pub in its name, making it easy to plan a refreshment break.

The touring cycling routes in Payhembury are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic views along the River Otter, and the opportunity to explore ancient woodlands and charming villages.

While many routes include paved sections, the Killerton Park Cycle Track, though a short distance from Payhembury, is a well-surfaced, hard-packed gravel path suitable for touring bikes, offering a more accessible option within the wider area.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Payhembury, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While cycling is possible year-round, some unpaved sections, like parts of the Killerton Park Cycle Track, can become muddy in winter.