The best cycling routes around Littleham

Littleham offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists, characterized by stunning coastal and estuarine scenery, tranquil rural hinterland, and picturesque river valleys. You'll find routes along the East Devon coast, the Exe Estuary, and inland through traditional Devonshire countryside, often following former railway lines. The area is part of the Jurassic Coast, providing dramatic views, and the Exe Estuary is internationally important for birdlife.

There are over 80 touring cycling routes around Littleham. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with approximately 20 easy routes, 28 moderate routes, and 33 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced cyclists.

Yes, Littleham offers several easy routes perfect for families or those new to touring cycling. A great option is the Bideford Bridge – Instow Signal Box loop from Bideford, which is just over 12 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a relaxed ride. Many routes along former railway lines, like the Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton Old Railway Line, also provide generally flat and well-surfaced paths.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the area provides routes with significant elevation gain. A notable difficult option is the Beam Aqueduct – Tarka Trail loop from Bideford, which spans over 92 km and features substantial climbing while exploring the Tarka Trail and the historic Beam Aqueduct.

Yes, many routes around Littleham are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Tarka Trail – River Taw loop from Weare Giffard is a popular moderate route covering nearly 55 km, offering scenic riverside views as it circles back to its starting point.

Touring cycling routes around Littleham offer access to a wealth of natural beauty and landmarks. You can explore the stunning Exe Estuary, part of the National Cycle Network Route 2, offering wide-open views and diverse wildlife. Inland, routes pass through traditional Devonshire countryside and woodlands. Notable highlights include sections of the Tarka Trail, the Beam Aqueduct, and the serene Isley Marsh Nature Reserve. The Jurassic Coast also provides dramatic coastal scenery.

The touring cycling routes in Littleham are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths with fresh sea air to tranquil rural landscapes and picturesque river valleys. The well-developed network of cycle paths, including parts of the National Cycle Network and former railway lines, is also frequently highlighted for providing fulfilling experiences.

Yes, the region around Littleham features routes that follow former railway lines, offering generally flat and well-surfaced paths. A prime example is the Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton Old Railway Line, which heads east from Exmouth. These routes provide a gentle ride through charming Devonshire countryside and woodland, making them ideal for relaxed touring.

Absolutely! Littleham's location offers numerous opportunities to combine cycling with other outdoor pursuits. Beyond the saddle, you can visit attractions like The Donkey Sanctuary, explore Go Ape Haldon for high ropes, or discover the impressive Canonteign Falls. The area also boasts various beaches, such as Dawlish Warren Beach, and opportunities for horse riding, zoos, and wildlife parks.

The Exe Estuary Trail is a fantastic 16-mile route that runs along both sides of the Exe Estuary, connecting Exmouth, Dawlish Warren, and Exeter Quay. It's part of the National Cycle Network Route 2 and provides mostly flat paths alongside the water, offering stunning views and excellent birdwatching opportunities. This trail is ideal for a relaxed touring experience.

Many routes in the Littleham area provide a beautiful blend of riverside and coastal scenery. For instance, the River Taw – Fremington Quay Café loop from Bideford leads through scenic river valleys, and its proximity to the coast means you're never far from the sea air and views. The broader National Cycle Network Route 2 also offers sections that transition between coastal paths and estuarine environments.