The best gravel rides around Sidmouth

The Sidmouth area offers a diverse gravel biking experience, characterized by the Pebblebed Heaths, Woodbury Common, and the Exe Estuary. You'll encounter a mix of open heathland, wooded sections, and coastal paths. The terrain varies from firm gravel tracks to more technical bridleways, with some routes featuring significant elevation gain due to the region's unique geology.

Yes, Sidmouth offers routes suitable for beginners. While the guide highlights several moderate and difficult options, there is at least one easy route available. For a moderate option that's not too long, consider the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths – East Devon Way loop from Colaton Raleigh, which is 11.8 km and takes about 54 minutes.

For a challenging ride with notable elevation gain, the Woodbury common loop from Honiton — Pebblebed Heaths in East Devon is an excellent choice. This difficult 49.6 km route traverses the expansive Pebblebed Heaths and features over 630 meters of ascent.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the Sidmouth area are circular. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk – View over the Exe Estuary loop from Bicton is a moderate 27.5 km circular path offering views across the water. Another option is the East Devon Way – Hawkerland Bridleway loop from Bystock Nature Reserve, a moderate 14.3 km loop.

Ride durations vary significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. You can find shorter rides, like the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths – East Devon Way loop from Colaton Raleigh, which takes about 54 minutes for 11.8 km. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Woodbury common loop, can take around 3 hours 41 minutes to complete 49.6 km.

The region offers several natural attractions. Along or near some routes, you might encounter the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, offering wildlife viewing opportunities. Other notable natural features in the wider area include the dramatic Ladram Bay Sea Stacks and the scenic Beer to Seaton Coastal Path.

The gravel biking routes around Sidmouth are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 5 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, from open heathland to estuary paths, and the options available for different skill levels.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly detailed, the region does offer easy and moderate trails that could be suitable for families depending on their experience level. Shorter, less challenging routes, particularly those with flatter sections like parts of the Exe Estuary, might be good starting points. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile before heading out with children.

The diverse landscape of Sidmouth makes it suitable for gravel biking across many seasons. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter conditions can vary, the region's gravel surfaces generally hold up well, though some bridleways might become muddier. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.

Many routes in the Sidmouth area traverse or are close to towns and villages where you can find cafes and pubs. While specific stops are not detailed for every route, planning your ride to pass through places like Colaton Raleigh or Bicton, as featured in routes like the Hawkerland Bridleway – Mutters Moor loop from Colaton Raleigh, will likely offer opportunities for refreshments.

There are 9 gravel bike routes available in the Sidmouth region, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult. This provides ample choice for different skill levels and preferences.