The best gravel rides around Manaton

Manaton offers a diverse network of over 20 gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 1 easy, 8 moderate, and 11 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every gravel cyclist.

While many routes in Manaton offer a challenge, there is at least one easy gravel bike trail. For a moderate option that balances scenic views with a manageable distance, consider the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop from Dartmeet, which is 12.4 km long and often completed in under an hour. This area, with its ancient woodlands and river valleys, provides a beautiful setting for a less strenuous ride.

The Manaton area, situated in Dartmoor National Park, is rich in dramatic tors and ancient woodlands. You can encounter iconic granite formations like Haytor Rocks, offering panoramic views, or the intriguing Hound Tor. The region also features picturesque river valleys and ancient woodlands, such as those around Lustleigh Cleave.

Yes, the region around Manaton is known for its water features, especially after rainfall. Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park, located below Manaton, is famous for its impressive waterfalls. While specific gravel routes may not directly pass through the park, the general area's river valleys, including the River Bovey, contribute to a landscape rich with water features. You might also encounter reservoirs like Kennick Reservoir or Fernworthy Reservoir on some routes.

The Manaton area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, which includes a mix of wild moorland, ancient woodlands, and quiet country lanes. The challenging ascents and rewarding vistas from the granite tors are also frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Absolutely. Manaton offers 11 difficult routes for experienced gravel bikers. A popular choice is the Fingle Bridge – Wray Valley Trail loop from Bovey Tracey, a substantial 48.2 km trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking nearly three hours to complete. Another challenging option is the Wray Valley Trail – Wray Valley Trail loop from Bovey Tracey, covering 31.0 km.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Manaton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Fingle Bridge – Clifford Bridge loop from The Drewe Arms (16.1 km) or the Bellever Forest – Bellever Bridge loop from Dartmeet (12.4 km), providing convenient options for exploring the area.

The terrain around Manaton is incredibly varied, reflecting its location within Dartmoor National Park. You'll encounter a mix of wild, high moorland, ancient woodlands, and picturesque river valleys. Routes often combine off-road tracks, disused railways, forest roads, and quiet country lanes. Expect some challenging sections with steep inclines, rocky descents, and granite formations, though many parts are considered '95% rideable' on a gravel bike.

Yes, the area boasts significant historical features. You can explore the remains of the Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village, offering a glimpse into 13th-century life. Additionally, the well-preserved Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound is relatively close and accessible for those keen to combine cycling with historical exploration.

While Manaton itself is a rural village, Dartmoor National Park has some public transport links to surrounding towns. For specific routes, you might find starting points in towns like Bovey Tracey, which may have better public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus services for routes connecting to the edges of the National Park and plan your ride accordingly.

Gravel biking in Manaton is enjoyable throughout much of the year, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be excellent, though trails may be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and colder weather, especially on the exposed moorland sections.

The Manaton area and surrounding Dartmoor villages offer various pubs and cafes where you can refuel. While specific routes might not pass directly by every establishment, many trails are designed to be accessible from villages. For example, the Fingle Bridge – Clifford Bridge loop starts near The Drewe Arms, providing a convenient option for a post-ride meal.