The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Allen

There are over 160 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around St. Allen, offering a wide range of options for exploring the central Cornwall region. These include 21 easy routes, 89 moderate routes, and 50 more challenging options.

Yes, the wider central Cornwall area, accessible from St. Allen, offers excellent family-friendly, traffic-free options. The Bissoe Trail (Coast to Coast Trail) is a notable example, being largely flat and suitable for all ages. It follows a former mining tramway, providing a safe and engaging ride through woodlands and historic sites.

Many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the moderate route "Eustace's Plantation loop from Zelah" offers a scenic 19 km ride. Another option is the "St Allen Church – St Newlyn East Preaching Pit loop from Zelah", which is a 25 km moderate loop starting near St. Allen.

The routes around St. Allen traverse diverse Cornish landscapes. You can expect to see historic mining landscapes, picturesque countryside, and charming villages. Nearby natural monuments include the dramatic Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins, the iconic St Agnes Beacon, and the beautiful Holywell Bay Beach and Gull Rocks.

While specific 'hidden gems' are often discovered by local exploration, the Mineral Tramways Network, accessible from the wider central Cornwall area, offers many less-trafficked paths. These routes follow historic mining lines, providing unique insights into Cornwall's industrial heritage amidst quiet, scenic surroundings, often with views over the coast and countryside.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Cornwall, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the region's mild climate means that many routes are enjoyable year-round, though some paths may be wetter in winter.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around St. Allen, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 279 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the opportunity to explore Cornwall's unique heritage and natural beauty away from traffic, and the well-maintained surfaces of many of the disused railway and tramway paths.

Yes, many routes are strategically located to allow access to various points of interest. For instance, the "St Newlyn East Preaching Pit – Lappa Valley Steam Railway loop from Zelah" can connect you to local attractions. The wider network of trails often passes by historic sites, charming villages, and offers opportunities to visit nearby coastal areas or gardens.

While St. Allen itself is a small hamlet, parking is typically available in nearby larger towns like Truro or at designated trailheads for major routes such as the Bissoe Trail or the Camel Trail. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking information.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on the public no-traffic touring routes around St. Allen or within the wider Cornish cycling network. These paths, often converted railway lines or tramways, are freely accessible for recreational use. Always respect local signage and private land notices.

Cycling through the Cornish countryside and along former industrial routes offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. You might spot various bird species, small mammals, and diverse plant life, especially in wooded sections or along river estuaries. The quiet nature of these no-traffic routes enhances the chances of wildlife sightings.