The best traffic-free bike rides in Devon

Devon offers a vast network of routes for touring cyclists seeking traffic-free experiences. On komoot, you'll find over 1500 such routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Devon is excellent for family-friendly, traffic-free cycling. The Exe Estuary trail loop from Exeter to Exmouth is a largely flat and scenic option, perfect for all ages. Another popular choice is the Tarka Trail, which follows disused railway lines through beautiful countryside, offering a very gentle gradient.

For longer, traffic-free adventures, consider routes that incorporate sections of the National Cycle Network. The Dartmoor Way, while primarily using quiet lanes, includes traffic-free sections and offers a substantial 95-mile circular journey. The Granite Way, part of the Devon Coast to Coast (NCN 27), provides an 11-mile traffic-free path with spectacular views.

Devon's traffic-free routes showcase a diverse range of natural beauty. You'll cycle through dramatic coastlines, tranquil river valleys, wild moorlands, and lush woodlands. Routes like the Exe Estuary Trail offer stunning wildlife viewing opportunities along the water, while the Granite Way provides views of Dartmoor's upland scenery and distant moors.

While many traffic-free routes are designed for ease, some incorporate more challenging sections or longer distances. The Lydford & Peter Tavey — Granite Way loop from Okehampton, for instance, is rated as difficult due to its length and elevation gain, offering a rewarding challenge within a largely traffic-free environment.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Devon, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied scenery, the peacefulness of the traffic-free paths, and the excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly along the estuaries.

Yes, many traffic-free routes in Devon pass through or near charming towns and villages that offer cafes, pubs, and shops. The Dartmoor Way, for example, is designed to link hamlets, villages, and towns, providing numerous places to eat, drink, and stay. The Exe Estuary Trail also connects several riverside towns with amenities.

Many of Devon's cycling routes are accessible via public transport, particularly those that follow disused railway lines or connect major towns. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail is easily reached by train to Exeter, Exmouth, or Dawlish. Always check local bus and train services for specific route access points and bike carriage policies.

You'll find numerous scenic viewpoints and attractions. Along the Granite Way, you can see the impressive Meldon Viaduct. The Tavistock & Burrator Reservoir loop from Yelverton offers views of the beautiful Burrator Reservoir. For dramatic natural features, consider visiting Haytor Rocks or Hound Tor, which are often accessible from routes in Dartmoor.

Yes, several routes offer circular options for a complete touring experience. The Dartmoor Way is a well-known 95-mile circular route. The Exe Estuary trail loop from Exeter to Exmouth and the Exe Estuary loop from Exeter to Dawlish are also excellent circular options, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling in Devon, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, and some routes are enjoyable year-round, weather permitting. Always check the forecast before you go.

Many popular traffic-free routes, especially those that are part of the National Cycle Network, have designated parking areas at key access points. For example, routes like the Tarka Trail and Granite Way often have car parks in nearby towns or at trailheads. It's advisable to check specific route details or local council websites for parking information before your trip.