The best cycling routes in East Devon AONB

East Devon National Landscape offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 120 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in East Devon National Landscape, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastal paths to tranquil river valleys and extensive heathlands, as well as the variety of routes suitable for all abilities.

The East Devon National Landscape is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Summer provides warmer weather, ideal for coastal rides, while winter can be suitable for cycling on quieter roads, though some off-road sections might be muddy.

Yes, East Devon National Landscape has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway loop from Budleigh Salterton is an easy 9.3 km path. The region also features traffic-free paths like sections of the National Cycle Network and the Exe Estuary Trail, which are ideal for a relaxed ride.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, East Devon National Landscape offers routes with significant elevation gains and longer distances. The Axmouth Bridge – Cannington Viaduct loop from Beer is a difficult 71.8 km trail, and the River Otter Bike Path – River Sid Ford loop from Otterton is another challenging option, covering 32.7 km with over 500 meters of ascent.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in East Devon National Landscape are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable regional circular route is The Buzzard Route, an 80-mile trail traversing various towns and landscapes. Within our guide, routes like the Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway – Budleigh Salterton Beach loop from Budleigh Salterton also offer circular options.

For long-distance touring, consider the East Devon Trail (EDT), a 115-mile (185 km) bikepacking route that showcases the region's diverse habitats from coast to country. The National Cycle Network also includes Route 2 (South Coast Cycle Route) with off-road sections, providing extensive options for longer journeys.

Yes, East Devon National Landscape provides options for off-road touring. The East Devon Trail (EDT) includes both paved and unpaved sections. Additionally, bridleways across the pebblebed heathlands of Woodbury Common, Mutter's Moor, and East Hill offer more adventurous, unpaved riding experiences.

While cycling, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of landscapes. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs and golden beaches of the Jurassic Coast, the vast expanses of heathland like the Pebblebed Heaths, and the fertile river valleys carved by the Rivers Exe, Axe, Sid, and Otter. You'll also pass through ancient woodlands and wildflower meadows.

East Devon National Landscape is rich in biodiversity. Along the Exe Estuary, you can spot a wide variety of birdlife. The River Otter is famously home to a family of beavers. Areas like the Seaton Wetlands offer nearly 4km of trails ideal for wildlife spotting, including various marshland and reed bed species.

Yes, there are numerous points of interest. You can visit the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, or stop at Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle, the westernmost point of the Jurassic Coast. Other attractions include charming coastal villages like Sidmouth and Beer, The Donkey Sanctuary, and historic sites such as Iron Age hill forts.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages throughout East Devon National Landscape, such as Sidmouth, Exmouth, and Beer, which serve as popular starting points for many routes. Specific car parks are often signposted near trailheads or popular attractions. It's advisable to check local council websites for detailed parking information and any potential charges.

Public transport options, including local bus services, connect many of the towns and villages within East Devon National Landscape. Some services may accommodate bicycles, but it's recommended to check with the specific transport provider in advance for their bicycle carriage policies and timetables, especially if you plan to use trains or coaches.

Yes, you'll find plenty of opportunities for refreshments. Many routes link towns and villages such as Sidmouth, Beer, and Budleigh Salterton, which offer a selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Historic sites like Otterton Mill also house cafes, providing convenient stops for a break and a bite to eat.