The best road cycling routes around Iddesleigh

There are over 60 road cycling routes around Iddesleigh, catering to various skill levels. These routes traverse a landscape of rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, and ancient woodlands.

Iddesleigh's road cycling terrain is characterized by rolling hills and pastoral valley floors. You'll find mostly well-paved surfaces, but some routes, especially those venturing further afield like the 'Cornish Country Lanes – Ruby Way loop from Hatherleigh', may include unpaved segments. The area offers a mix of moderate climbs and scenic flats.

Yes, there are a few easier options. For a less strenuous ride, consider the Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop from Hatherleigh, which is an easy 17.6 km route. Additionally, sections of the Tarka Trail, particularly the 32-mile stretch from Braunton to Meeth, are entirely traffic-free and flat, making them ideal for families.

Many routes around Iddesleigh are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the Woodland Pathway loop from Hatherleigh, which is 35 km long and winds through tranquil river valleys and ancient woodlands. For a longer ride, the Dartmoor Way offers a 95-mile circular route around Dartmoor National Park.

Absolutely. Iddesleigh provides access to several significant long-distance routes. The Tarka Trail is a 180-mile figure-of-eight route, and the Devon Coast to Coast (NCN Route 27) is a 102-mile route linking Ilfracombe to Plymouth. Both offer extensive traffic-free sections and stunning scenery.

The region is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You can cycle alongside the meandering River Torridge, explore ancient woodlands, or pass through pastoral valleys. Notable attractions include Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, Abbeyford Woods, and the historic market town of Hatherleigh. The Tarka Trail also passes through the War Horse Valley Country Farm Park.

Many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find refreshments. The historic 15th-century Duke of York Inn in Iddesleigh itself is a convenient stop. For example, the River Okement – Sticklepath Store & Tea Room loop from Monkokehampton is designed to include a stop at a tea room. The nearby market town of Hatherleigh also offers local amenities.

The best time for road cycling around Iddesleigh is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and the days are longer. The picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and river valleys are particularly vibrant during these seasons. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a more demanding ride, the region offers challenging options. The Cornish Country Lanes – Ruby Way loop from Hatherleigh is a difficult 86.6 km route with over 1100 meters of elevation gain. Proximity to Dartmoor National Park also provides access to rugged and dramatic landscapes with significant climbs.

The road cycling routes around Iddesleigh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the tranquility of the river valleys and ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained surfaces that make for enjoyable rides through the Devon countryside.

While specific trailhead parking details vary by route, many villages and towns in the area, such as Hatherleigh, offer public parking facilities that can serve as convenient starting points for your rides. For routes that connect to larger trails like the Tarka Trail or Devon Coast to Coast, dedicated parking areas are often available at key access points.

Yes, Iddesleigh serves as an excellent base for accessing major cycling networks. The Tarka Trail, a 180-mile route, passes through the War Horse Valley Country Farm Park near Iddesleigh. The Devon Coast to Coast (NCN Route 27) also passes through areas like Hatherleigh, offering extensive traffic-free sections and connecting to Iddesleigh's surrounding routes.

Iddesleigh's proximity to Dartmoor National Park means that some routes will offer glimpses of its dramatic scenery. The 95-mile circular Dartmoor Way, which winds around the national park, connects through quiet Devon lanes and minor roads, providing ample opportunities to experience the rugged beauty of Dartmoor's uplands and granite tors.