The best traffic-free bike rides around Ashburton

Komoot currently features 5 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Ashburton. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring there's something for various skill levels.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Ashburton primarily feature paved surfaces, making them ideal for race bikes. While the region is known for its diverse landscapes, these specific routes are designed to keep you on smooth roads, often with scenic backdrops of the Southern Alps or the Ashburton Lakes District.

While the routes listed in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the Ashburton region offers other family-friendly cycling opportunities. For instance, the The Golden Lion Statue – Viewpoint at Hockmoor Head loop from Ashburton is a moderate 20 km ride that could be suitable for more experienced families. Additionally, the Ashburton/Hakatere River Trail and the Lake Hood track, mentioned in regional research, are known for being easier and more accessible, though not explicitly listed as 'no-traffic' in this guide's data.

While the specific routes in this guide are focused on the Ashburton area, they offer glimpses of the wider region's beauty. For example, the Haytor Descent – Scenic Road to Hound Tor loop from Ashburton provides stunning views. The broader Ashburton region is rich in natural beauty, including the Ashburton Lakes District with Lake Clearwater and Lake Heron, and the dramatic Ashburton River mouth. You can also explore highlights like Haytor Rocks or Hound Tor, which are popular points of interest in the wider area.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are circular. This means you can start and end your ride in the same location, making logistics easier. Examples include the Dartmeet, Widecombe & Hay Tor loop from Ashburton and the Widecombe Climb – Hemsworthy Gate loop from Ashburton.

Ashburton offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and stable weather, ideal for longer rides. Summer can be warm but is also excellent, especially for exploring the high country. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially more variable weather, especially closer to the Southern Alps.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Ashburton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the distant Southern Alps and the unique Dartmoor scenery.

Absolutely. For those seeking a significant challenge, the Dartmeet, Widecombe & Hay Tor loop from Ashburton is a difficult 55 km route with over 1200 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience on quiet roads.

Ashburton township itself offers various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. While the no-traffic routes often venture into more rural settings, many pass through or near small villages where you might find refreshment. For example, routes like the Scenic Road to Hound Tor – Hemsworthy Gate loop from Ashburton will take you through areas where local amenities might be available, particularly in places like Widecombe-in-the-Moor.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Ashburton vary in length and duration. You can find rides ranging from approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes for shorter, moderate loops like The Golden Lion Statue – Viewpoint at Hockmoor Head loop from Ashburton, up to around 3 hours and 16 minutes for more challenging, longer routes such as the Dartmeet, Widecombe & Hay Tor loop from Ashburton.