The best road cycling routes around Selworthy

There are over 80 road cycling routes around Selworthy, offering a diverse range of experiences within Exmoor National Park. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy rides to very challenging climbs.

The routes around Selworthy offer a mix of difficulties. You'll find 8 easy routes, 41 moderate routes, and 40 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for all skill levels, from leisurely rides to demanding climbs with significant elevation changes.

Yes, Selworthy is known for its challenging road cycling routes, particularly within Exmoor National Park. A notable challenge is Porlock Hill, west of Porlock village, which features gradients of up to 25%. Routes can involve over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, with some segments potentially unpaved and difficult, requiring good to very good fitness.

Yes, there are easy road cycling routes around Selworthy, with 8 routes specifically categorized as easy. These typically feature mostly well-paved surfaces, are under two hours in duration, and have up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain, making them suitable for any fitness level. An example is the Allerford Stone Bridge – Bossington Village loop from Porlock, which is an easy 22 km ride.

Road cycling routes near Selworthy offer numerous scenic viewpoints. You can climb to Selworthy Beacon for panoramic views across the Bristol Channel to Wales on a clear day. Other routes provide stunning vistas over Porlock Bay, especially after tackling climbs like Porlock Hill. For the highest point in Exmoor with exceptional views, consider incorporating Dunkery Beacon Summit into a longer ride.

Absolutely. Selworthy itself is renowned for its charming thatched cottages and a medieval church, All Saints' Church. The picturesque Porlock Village Centre, situated at the base of Porlock Hill, is another delightful stop with attractive old properties. Nearby Bossington Village and Dunster Village also contribute to the scenic beauty and offer interesting places to explore.

Many of the road cycling routes around Selworthy are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the View of Porlock Village – Porlock Toll Road loop from Porlock and the Stowey Plantation – West Wood loop from Porlock, which are popular choices among local cyclists.

The quiet country roads and magnificent countryside of Exmoor make Selworthy enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring, with lush landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for potentially challenging conditions, especially on higher routes, due to weather changes in Exmoor National Park.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshment along the routes. Picturesque villages like Selworthy and Porlock offer charming cafes and pubs where you can take a break. The Porlock Village Centre, for instance, is a great spot to refuel after a climb or before continuing your journey.

The road cycling routes around Selworthy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain of Exmoor National Park, including challenging ascents like Porlock Hill, the panoramic views from hills such as Selworthy Beacon, and the peaceful country roads winding through wooded valleys. The diversity offers something for every rider.

While Selworthy is nestled within Exmoor National Park, public transport options can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services or consider driving to a starting point with parking. For more general information on active travel in the wider Exmoor area, you might find resources on the Visit Exmoor cycling page.

Parking is typically available in or near the villages that serve as common starting points for routes, such as Porlock or Selworthy. Look for designated car parks in these areas. It's always a good idea to check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.