The best traffic-free bike rides in South Hams

There are over 90 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in South Hams, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes 16 easy routes, 71 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging options.

South Hams offers a stunning variety of landscapes, from rugged coastlines with dramatic sea views to tranquil inland trails through lush woodlands and rolling hills. You'll encounter picturesque estuaries, ancient agricultural field patterns, and areas of natural beauty, including parts of the South Devon National Landscape.

Yes, South Hams has several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Hope Cove loop from Salcombe is an easy option that provides scenic coastal views without significant traffic. The Plym Valley Trail and sections of the Totnes to Dartington path are also known for being peaceful and traffic-free.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Tuckenhay Village on Bow Creek – Dartmouth Inner Harbour loop from Dartmouth offer significant elevation gain and longer distances while minimizing traffic exposure. These routes often traverse the hilliest parts of the region, providing rewarding climbs and descents.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in South Hams, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the region's diverse and beautiful landscapes, the abundance of quiet roads, and the charming villages encountered along the way. The sense of tranquility and the stunning coastal and countryside views are often highlighted.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in South Hams are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Hope Cove Beach – Hope Cove Beach loop from Aveton Gifford, which offers a moderate circular ride through scenic areas.

Many routes pass by or near notable attractions. You might encounter natural features like the Slapton Ley Nature Reserve or the dramatic cliffs at Prawle Point. Historic sites such as Dartmouth Castle or Greenway House (Agatha Christie's former home) are also accessible from various routes, offering cultural stops during your ride.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in South Hams, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be beautiful but also busier, especially in coastal areas. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather, though the quiet roads remain a draw.

Yes, many routes are designed to pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For instance, routes around Kingsbridge, Salcombe, and Dartmouth offer numerous refreshment stops. The The Maltsters Arms – Tuckenhay Village on Bow Creek loop from Dartington, for example, includes a stop at a well-known pub.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Salcombe, Dartmouth, and Totnes. Some specific trailheads, like those for the Plym Valley Trail, also have dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options for your chosen starting point.

Yes, some routes venture inland towards the edge of Dartmoor, where you can find picturesque reservoirs. While not directly on every road cycling route, areas around the Avon Dam Reservoir and Venford Reservoir offer stunning natural scenery that can be incorporated into longer rides or visited as nearby attractions.