The best road cycling routes around Petrockstowe

There are over 80 road cycling routes around Petrockstowe, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, quiet country lanes, and river valleys in rural Devon.

Yes, Petrockstowe offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. One such route is the Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop from Hatherleigh, which is just over 10 miles long with moderate elevation, providing a gentle introduction to the area's cycling. In total, there are 4 easy routes available.

For those seeking a challenge, Petrockstowe has 17 difficult road cycling routes. A notable option is the Cornish Country Lanes – Ruby Way loop from Hatherleigh. This route covers over 50 miles and features significant elevation gain, making it a demanding ride through the Devon countryside.

While many routes in Petrockstowe are on quiet country lanes, routes with less traffic and gentler gradients are generally more suitable for families. The Great Cafe – Hatherleigh loop from Hatherleigh is an easy option that could be considered for families looking for a shorter, less strenuous ride.

The best time for road cycling in Petrockstowe is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. During these periods, the weather is generally milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions. The rural lanes are particularly scenic when the countryside is in full bloom or displaying autumn colours.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Petrockstowe are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Woodland Pathway loop from Hatherleigh and the River Torridge Bridges – Hatherleigh loop from Merton, both offering varied scenery and terrain.

Many routes in rural Devon pass through or near villages and towns where you can find local pubs and cafes. While specific stops aren't always highlighted on every route, planning your ride to pass through places like Hatherleigh or North Tawton, as seen in the North Tawton Town Square – The Tarka Line Grill loop from Hatherleigh, will offer opportunities for refreshments.

Road cycling routes around Petrockstowe offer glimpses of rural Devon's charm. You might encounter historical sites like the Beam Aqueduct, picturesque settlements such as Hatherleigh, and scenic river views, including the River Torridge Bridges. The routes often follow quiet country lanes, providing a peaceful way to explore the countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet country lanes, varied woodland scenery, and the mix of open stretches and shaded paths that define the region's cycling experience. The network of routes caters to different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides.

While the Tarka Trail itself is a multi-use path, sections of road cycling routes near Petrockstowe, such as the North Tawton Town Square – The Tarka Line Grill loop from Hatherleigh, include parts that run alongside or connect to the Tarka Trail. The duration depends on the specific section and your pace, but a route like the one mentioned, which is 36.6 miles, typically takes around 2 hours 55 minutes to complete.

While specific parking areas for cyclists are not detailed for every route, starting points for many routes are often in or near villages like Hatherleigh or Merton. These locations typically offer public parking facilities, which can serve as convenient starting and ending points for your road cycling adventures.