The best cycling routes around St. Martin-By-Looe

There are over 90 touring cycling routes around St. Martin-By-Looe, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

While many routes in the region feature rolling hills, there is at least one easy touring cycling route available. For a moderate option that follows the river valley, consider the Looe River loop via Duloe Stone Circle and St Keyne, which is 13.9 miles (22.4 km) long.

The terrain around St. Martin-By-Looe is varied, featuring scenic Cornish landscapes with river valleys, coastal roads, and rolling hills. You'll find a mix of estuarial paths and inland routes, often following the natural contours of the land, which can include both challenging ascents and more gentle sections.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around St. Martin-By-Looe are circular. Examples include the popular The Fowey Estuary loop to Lostwithiel from Looe and the Looe River loop via Duloe Stone Circle and St Keyne.

For experienced touring cyclists, routes like The Fowey Estuary loop to Lostwithiel from Looe (38.0 miles with significant elevation gain) or Cawsand Beach – Whitsand Bay Coastal Road loop from Morval (37.0 miles with coastal climbs) offer a good challenge with rewarding views.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Cornwall, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable. Winter cycling is possible but may involve colder, wetter conditions.

Many routes in the region offer scenic views, particularly those along the coast or river valleys. The Cawsand Beach – Whitsand Bay Coastal Road loop from Morval provides extensive sea views. Along river routes like the Looe River, you might spot local wildlife. For specific viewpoints, consider routes passing near Talland Bay.

Several routes pass by notable landmarks. For instance, the Looe River loop includes historical points of interest like the Duloe Stone Circle. Other routes might take you near Polperro Harbour, the Looe Clock Tower, or Seaton Beach.

Given the region's popularity, many routes will naturally pass through or near villages and towns where pubs and cafes are available. For example, routes that go through Looe or Polperro will offer opportunities for refreshments. It's always a good idea to check your chosen route for specific points of interest.

The touring cycling routes around St. Martin-By-Looe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse Cornish landscape, the mix of coastal and inland scenery, and the variety of routes available for different abilities.

Parking availability varies by starting point. In towns like Looe, there are public car parks, though they can be busy during peak season. For routes starting in smaller villages or more rural areas, parking might be more limited. It's advisable to research specific parking options for your chosen route's starting location beforehand.

While the region has many routes with rolling hills, families looking for gentler rides might prefer sections along the Looe River valley or dedicated cycle paths where available. The Looe River loop via Duloe Stone Circle and St Keyne, being moderate in difficulty and following a river, could be a good option for families with some cycling experience.