The best MTB trails around Carlyon

There are 24 mountain bike routes available around Carlyon, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 9 easy trails and 15 moderate routes, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, Carlyon offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Pentewan Railway Trail – Pentewan Beach and Village loop from St. Austell, which is 10.1 km long and follows a historic railway line to the coast. Another easy route is the Wheal Martyn Clay Trail – Wheal Martyn Trail loop from Eden Project, covering 15.4 km through unique landscapes.

The mountain bike trails around Carlyon feature a mix of coastal paths, disused railway lines, and routes winding through the unique Cornish terrain. You'll encounter landscapes shaped by the region's historic tin and clay mining industries, alongside natural coastal features and woodlands.

While Carlyon itself doesn't feature 'difficult' graded trails, there are 15 moderate routes that offer a good challenge. For example, the Great Treverbyn Skytip – Roche Rock Chapel Ruins loop from St Austell is a moderate 42.4 km path exploring inland areas and former mining landscapes. Another moderate option is the Mevagissey Harbour – Pentewan Beach and Village loop from Par, a 50.4 km trail through coastal villages.

Trail lengths vary significantly, from shorter rides like the Pentewan Railway Trail at 10.1 km (around 30 minutes) to longer, more extensive routes such as the Mevagissey Harbour – Pentewan Beach and Village loop from Par, which is 50.4 km and can take about 3 hours 30 minutes to complete.

The mountain bike routes in Carlyon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to historic railway lines, and the unique landscapes shaped by Cornwall's mining history.

Many trails offer scenic views, particularly those along the coast or through the unique industrial heritage landscapes. The Mevagissey Harbour – Pentewan Beach and Village loop from Par provides picturesque coastal village scenery. The broader region is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and cliffs, which can be enjoyed from various vantage points along the trails.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Carlyon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Pentewan Railway Trail – Pentewan Beach and Village loop from St. Austell and the Wheal Martyn Clay Trail – Great Treverbyn Skytip loop from Par.

While mountain biking, you can explore several interesting attractions. The Wheal Martyn Clay Trail passes near the Eden Project. Other nearby points of interest include Mevagissey Harbour, Charlestown Harbour, and the historic Treffry Viaduct. The renowned Lost Gardens of Heligan are also in the vicinity.

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads may vary, Carlyon Bay is located near St. Austell, a larger town with train and bus connections. It's advisable to check local bus routes for access to specific starting points for the trails, especially those further inland.

The coastal areas, particularly around Pentewan Beach and Mevagissey Harbour, offer various cafes and food outlets. During summer months, Carlyon Bay beach itself features a beach bar and food options. For trails further inland, towns like St. Austell will have a wider selection of amenities.