The best cycling routes in Torbay

Torbay offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 140 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 13 easy, 57 moderate, and 76 difficult trails.

Torbay's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find flat seafront promenades ideal for relaxed rides, particularly in Torquay and Paignton. Beyond the coast, the region offers undulating hills and winding country lanes, providing more challenging routes with significant elevation gains through lush countryside and woodlands. Some routes, like sections of the Torbay Geotrail, also include traffic-free gravel tracks.

Yes, Torbay has options suitable for families. The flat seafront promenades in Torquay and Paignton are excellent for leisurely rides. For example, the approximately 4-mile route between Torquay harbour and Paignton Harbour is relatively flat and suitable for all cycling abilities. The Torquay Harbour and Marina – Goodrington Sands North Beach loop from Torquay is a moderate 24.4 km route that explores scenic coastal areas and beaches, offering enjoyable views for a family outing.

Torbay is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you can encounter dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and unique geological formations as part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark. Specific highlights include Berry Head Headland & Lighthouse near Brixham, offering spectacular views, and Babbacombe Downs Clifftop Promenade. You might also pass by Torquay Harbour and Marina or Paignton Pier.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Torbay are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Torbay loop to Paignton & Brixham from Torquay — South Devon, a challenging 52.7 km route connecting the coastal towns. Another is the Cafe 3 Sixty – Town Quay Bridge loop from Paignton, a moderate 52.8 km ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from extensive coastlines with stunning sea views to undulating inland hills and quiet country lanes. The variety of routes catering to different abilities, and the opportunity to explore the unique geological formations of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, are frequently highlighted.

Torbay benefits from a mild climate, which allows for year-round cycling opportunities. However, for the most pleasant experience, spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and often less crowded routes. Summer is also popular, especially for coastal rides, but can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Torbay offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Exe Estuary Trail – Exe Estuary Trail loop from Torre is a demanding 98.5 km route with over 1100 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Stone Bridge at Littlehempston – Totnes Town Centre loop from Brixham, covering 40.6 km with over 830 meters of ascent.

Yes, Torbay's towns and villages along the routes offer numerous opportunities for refreshment. The flat seafront promenades of Torquay and Paignton, for instance, have ample stopping points with cafes and restaurants. Routes passing through Brixham's quaint fishing harbor or Cockington Village will also provide options for food and drink.

Torbay caters to cyclists with dedicated facilities. The Torbay Velopark in Paignton is an outdoor closed-road circuit suitable for all ages and abilities. While primarily for mountain biking, Scadson Freeride Park in Scadson Woods offers purpose-built trails. Additionally, Torbay is part of the National Cycle Network, providing access to countrywide cycle paths.

Many moderate routes in Torbay provide excellent views. The Torquay Marina – Corbyn Head Bay loop from Brixham is a 31.7 km trail leading through coastal scenery. Another great option is the Torquay Marina – Corbyn Head Bay loop from Plainmoor, a 25.4 km route that also offers beautiful coastal vistas.

Torbay has a good public transport network, including buses and trains, which can be useful for accessing various starting points for cycling routes. Many routes connect the main towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham, which are well-served by public transport. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies before planning your trip.