The best road cycling routes around Molland

Road cycling around Molland, situated in the foothills of Exmoor National Park, is characterized by varied and often hilly terrain. You can expect a mix of ascents and descents, providing diverse challenges. The routes traverse rural English countryside, quiet lanes, and traditional villages, offering scenic rides through rolling hills.

While many routes in Molland feature challenging climbs, there are options for different ability levels. The guide lists 11 easy routes and 76 moderate routes, which could be suitable for beginners looking for less strenuous rides or those building up their fitness. Always check the route's elevation profile before heading out.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Molland offers routes with significant climbs. A notable difficult route is the Porlock Toll Road – Exmoor Forest Road Climb loop from Tarr Steps, which covers 54.5 miles (87.7 km) with over 1500 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Tarr Steps clapper bridge – Dunster Village loop from Tarr Steps, featuring over 1000 meters of ascent.

Molland's routes offer access to several interesting natural features and landmarks. You can encounter the historic Tarr Steps clapper bridge, a unique ancient bridge. Other points of interest include the Winsford Hill Summit Monument and scenic views like the View of Cow Castle. The area is also known for its remote hedgerows where the rare Molland Lily can be found.

Molland is a rural area, and while specific dedicated cyclist parking isn't detailed, parking is generally available in villages or designated car parks within Exmoor National Park, which surrounds Molland. It's advisable to check parking options for your chosen starting point before your ride.

Molland is a village in a rural part of Devon, and public transport options may be limited. Accessing road cycling routes directly by public transport might require some planning, potentially involving bus services to nearby larger towns like Dulverton or South Molton, and then cycling to your starting point. It's recommended to check local bus schedules in advance.

The best time for road cycling around Molland is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and daylight hours are longer, making for more enjoyable rides through the Exmoor foothills. Always be prepared for changeable weather, as is common in the UK.

While many routes involve hills, some of the moderate or easier routes might be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with some elevation. For instance, the Withypool Stone Bridge – Withypool Tea Room loop from West Anstey is a moderate 25-mile route that could be an option for active families.

Road cycling routes are generally not suitable for dogs due to safety concerns with traffic and the pace of cycling. If you wish to bring your dog, consider exploring walking or hiking trails in the Exmoor area instead, where specific dog-friendly paths are more common.

Yes, several routes incorporate stops at local establishments. For example, the Spelt 42 Café & Bakery – Bampton Village Café Stop loop from Knowstone is specifically designed to include a café stop. Many villages in the area, such as Bampton and Withypool, offer pubs and cafes where cyclists can refuel.

The road cycling routes around Molland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful rural English countryside, and the challenging climbs that offer rewarding views across the Exmoor foothills.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Molland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Porlock Toll Road – Exmoor Forest Road Climb loop from Tarr Steps and the Dulverton – Winsford Hill Summit Monument loop from Withypool, providing convenient options for your ride.