The best gravel rides around Plymouth

Gravel biking around Plymouth offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find everything from urban gravel paths to challenging moorland trails, particularly within Dartmoor National Park. Many routes utilize disused railway lines, providing hard-packed surfaces and impressive viaducts like the Cann Viaduct. Other sections feature varied gravel quality and significant elevation changes, especially when venturing into the moorlands or connecting to routes like the Princetown track.

Yes, the Plym Valley Trail is an excellent option for families. It's largely traffic-free and follows an old railway line, offering a relatively flat and hard-packed surface. Sections of this trail are incorporated into routes like the Plym Valley Trail – Shaugh Tunnel loop from Plympton, providing a scenic and accessible experience for various skill levels.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the stunning Plym Valley Trail itself, enjoy views of the River Plym, and cross impressive structures like the Cann Viaduct. Dartmoor National Park offers rugged beauty, ancient tors, and unique ecosystems. The Burrator Reservoir – Grenofen Tunnel loop from Estover, for example, provides stunning water views of Burrator Reservoir.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Waterfall at Lydia Bridge – The Station House loop from Lee Mill offer significant elevation gain and varied terrain over 31.9 miles. Many routes extending into Dartmoor National Park also present more demanding conditions with steeper inclines and open moorland sections, requiring good fitness and advanced riding skills.

The region offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While Dartmoor can be boggy in wet conditions, many dedicated gravel routes, especially those on disused railway lines, remain rideable. Always check local weather conditions, especially if planning to venture onto the open moorlands.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Plymouth are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Plym Valley Trail – Cann Viaduct loop from Notre Dame RC School and the Nun's Cross – Burrator Reservoir loop from Shaugh Prior, which offer circular journeys through scenic landscapes.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Plymouth, with an average score of 2.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil river valleys to the rugged beauty of Dartmoor, and the unique experience of cycling along old railway lines and viaducts. The variety of routes catering to different skill levels is also a frequently appreciated aspect.

Plymouth itself is well-connected by public transport. Many routes, particularly those incorporating the Plym Valley Trail, are accessible from various points within or near the city, making it feasible to reach trailheads without a car. For routes deeper into Dartmoor, public transport options might be more limited, so planning ahead is advisable.

Yes, the region offers opportunities for longer gravel rides. The Plym Valley Trail connects to the National Cycle Network Route 27 and the Devon Coast to Coast ride, allowing for extended journeys. While not directly in Plymouth, the Dartmoor 130 Loop provides an extensive and challenging off-road experience circumventing the entire national park for those seeking multi-hour or multi-day adventures.

While specific amenities vary by route, many popular gravel biking areas, especially those near towns or villages, will have options for refreshments. For example, routes that pass through or near areas like Lee Mill or Estover, or those that incorporate sections of the Plym Valley Trail, are likely to have cafes or pubs nearby. It's always a good idea to check the route details or a map for specific points of interest before you set out.

Gravel biking around Plymouth caters to various difficulty levels. While there are no 'easy' routes listed in the guide data, you'll find a mix of 'moderate' and 'difficult' options. Moderate routes, such as the Nun's Cross – Burrator Reservoir loop from Shaugh Prior, offer manageable challenges. Difficult routes, like the Plym Valley Trail – Shaugh Tunnel loop from Plymouth, typically involve significant elevation gain and longer distances, suitable for more experienced riders.