The best gravel rides around Buckland Monachorum

There are currently 15 gravel bike trails documented on komoot for the Buckland Monachorum area. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, catering to various skill levels.

The terrain around Buckland Monachorum is quite varied, blending open moorland from Dartmoor National Park, dense woodlands, and scenic river valleys. You'll also find repurposed disused railway lines, such as sections of Drake's Trail and the Plym Valley Trail, which offer smoother, flatter sections. Routes often combine these elements, providing a diverse cycling experience.

While many routes in the immediate area are rated moderate to difficult, the region does offer sections suitable for families and beginners, particularly along the repurposed railway lines like the Plym Valley Trail. For a moderate option that explores the Dartmoor edge, consider the Nun's Cross (Siward's Cross) – Leather Tor Clapper Bridge loop from Shaugh Prior, which covers 20.7 km with 344 meters of elevation gain.

The trails often pass by significant natural and historical features. You can cycle past the scenic Burrator Reservoir, explore historic tunnels like the Grenofen Tunnel and Shaugh Tunnel, or cross the impressive Gem Bridge. The routes also offer views of Dartmoor's granite tors, such as Middle Staple Tor and Pew Tor.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Buckland Monachorum are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Burrator Reservoir and Dam – Shaugh Tunnel loop from Cann Woods is a 53.6 km circular path offering varied scenery. Another option is the Plym Valley Trail – Shaugh Tunnel loop from Plympton, a 37.6 km loop through river valleys.

The region offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, though Dartmoor can be exposed. Winter can be challenging due to weather conditions, but some lower-elevation and sheltered routes remain accessible.

Parking is generally available at various access points to the trails, particularly near popular starting locations for routes. For example, routes starting from Tavistock or Plympton often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route descriptions on komoot for detailed parking information at the trailhead.

While Buckland Monachorum itself is a village, some trailheads and nearby towns are accessible by public transport. For instance, routes that utilize sections of the Plym Valley Trail or Drake's Trail may be reachable via bus services to nearby towns like Tavistock or Plymouth, which have connections to the wider transport network. Planning your journey in advance is recommended.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from several reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rugged moorland to tranquil river valleys, and the unique experience of cycling through historic tunnels and along repurposed railway lines. The variety of routes catering to different fitness levels is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Buckland Monachorum area, especially its Dartmoor sections, offers several challenging routes. The Granite & Gears: Princetown & Burrator Loop is a difficult 45.2 km trail with over 650 meters of elevation gain, exploring Dartmoor's rugged terrain. Another demanding option is the Gem Bridge – Grenofen Tunnel loop from Tavistock, a 31 km route with over 530 meters of climbing.

Many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, routes that incorporate Tavistock or Plympton will offer opportunities for refreshments. It's a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot or local maps to identify suitable stops along your chosen trail.