The best road cycling routes around Cornwall

Cornwall offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from coastal paths with varied elevations to rolling hills and river valleys inland. You'll find options suitable for different preferences, including easy rides and more challenging moderate routes. The region's topography provides a good mix of gradients.

Yes, Cornwall has several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Arterial Highway Crossing – Royalty Junction loop from University of Prince Edward Island is an easy 22.8 km route. Another accessible option is the Roadbike loop from RCMP L Division Headquarters, which covers 25.9 km and is also rated easy. Beyond these, the Camel Trail, a largely flat 18-mile route along a disused railway line, is ideal for families and casual cyclists, though it's not exclusively a road cycling route.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Royalty Junction – Milton Station loop from Stratford is a popular choice, covering 54.2 km. Another excellent moderate route is the Hyde Park loop from Charlottetown, which spans 53.5 km and features varied terrain. The Watershed – Kellys Cove loop from Charlottetown is also a moderate 49.3 km trail through diverse landscapes.

Cornwall's mild weather makes it desirable for outdoor pursuits, especially during spring and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant cycling conditions with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. While cycling is possible year-round, spring and autumn provide an optimal balance of weather and tranquility.

Yes, Cornwall is home to significant long-distance routes. The **Cornish Way**, part of the National Cycle Network, is a 180-mile route traversing the entire county. For a challenging multi-day experience, the **West Kernow Way** offers a 150-mile figure-of-eight journey around the western tip of Cornwall, taking cyclists through coves, clifftops, and fishing villages.

Cornwall's road cycling routes offer breathtaking scenery. Along coastal sections, you might encounter iconic landmarks such as Land's End, Sennen Cove, Cape Cornwall, and St Michael's Mount. The Lizard Peninsula features unique geology and stunning coastal cliffs, including Kynance Cove with its turquoise waters. Inland, routes can lead you through rugged Bodmin Moor or past natural wonders like the dramatic granite stacks of Bedruthan Steps and the expansive views from Trevose Head.

Yes, several attractions are close to the cycling routes. In the Charlottetown area, you can visit St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral or explore Charlottetown itself, including the Richmond and Queen Street Shopping District. Other points of interest include the Echo Shrine and St. Paul's Anglican Church. Beyond these, Cornwall boasts gardens like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, historic mining sites, and natural wonders such as Carnglaze Caverns and Golitha Falls.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Cornwall are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Watershed – Kellys Cove loop from Charlottetown and the Hyde Park loop from Charlottetown. The West Kernow Way is also a notable 150-mile figure-of-eight journey, offering a comprehensive circular experience.

Cornwall's road cycling routes feature varied elevation profiles. Coastal paths often include significant ascents and descents as they follow the rugged coastline. Inland, areas like Bodmin Moor present rolling hills and more challenging climbs. Even moderate routes, such as the Watershed – Kellys Cove loop, can involve around 360 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout.

For additional information and to help plan your road cycling adventure in Cornwall, you can visit the official tourism website. They often provide details on routes, accommodations, and local services. You can find more general cycling information at visitcornwall.com/cycling.

Popular areas for road cycling include the dramatic Cornish coastline, offering routes with stunning sea views. Inland, Bodmin Moor provides a rugged and rewarding experience, while the Camel Valley, traversed by the Camel Trail, is known for its picturesque scenery. The Lizard Peninsula is also highly regarded for its unique geology and coastal cliffs.

There are several road cycling routes available in Cornwall on komoot, with a total of 7 tours currently listed. These include a mix of easy and moderate options to suit various skill levels.