The best gravel rides around Launde Big Wood

There are several gravel bike trails to explore around Launde Big Wood, primarily centered around the nearby Rutland Water. Our guide features five distinct routes, offering a mix of moderate and difficult options for gravel bikers.

While many routes around Launde Big Wood feature moderate to difficult sections, the Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham is a moderate 17.7-mile (28.4 km) path with less climbing, making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride around the reservoir.

Many of the gravel biking routes in this area, particularly those around Rutland Water, offer parking facilities at various points. For example, routes starting from Oakham or Skeffington typically have designated parking areas near the reservoir, providing convenient access to the trails.

The rolling hills and woodland paths around Launde Big Wood are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on unpaved sections.

Yes, for experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Skeffington, a 31.5-mile (50.8 km) trail, feature significant elevation gain and are rated as difficult. Another challenging option is the View of Rutland Water – Rutland Water Dam loop from Uppingham, which covers nearly 60 km with substantial climbing.

The well-maintained sections of the Rutland Water Cycle Route offer suitable terrain for families. While some routes have moderate climbs, shorter loops or sections of the main reservoir path can be enjoyed by riders of varying ages and abilities, providing a safe and scenic environment.

Yes, particularly around Rutland Water, you'll find several cafes and refreshment stops. The main visitor centers and villages dotted around the reservoir offer places to refuel and relax, making it easy to plan a ride with breaks.

The diverse landscape of Launde Big Wood and Rutland Water provides opportunities for wildlife spotting. You might encounter various bird species, including waterfowl around the reservoir, as well as deer and other woodland creatures in the forested sections. Keep an eye out, especially during quieter times of day.

Most of the featured gravel bike routes around Launde Big Wood and Rutland Water are designed as circular loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, offering convenient exploration of the area without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the various Rutland Water Cycle Route loops.

In winter, gravel trails around Launde Big Wood can vary. While some sections, especially paved or well-compacted paths around Rutland Water, remain rideable, unpaved woodland and countryside tracks may become muddy, wet, or even icy. It's advisable to check local weather conditions and trail reports before heading out and to equip your bike appropriately.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, combining reservoir-side paths with open countryside and woodland sections, as well as the well-maintained surfaces suitable for gravel bikes. The scenic views, particularly around Rutland Water, are also frequently highlighted.

The duration of gravel bike trails around Launde Big Wood varies depending on the route and your pace. For instance, the moderate Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham typically takes around 2 hours, while longer and more challenging routes like the Lagoon 4 Track – Rutland Water Cycle Route loop from Oakham can take closer to 3 hours.