The best cycling routes in Dartmoor

Dartmoor offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes. According to komoot data, there are over 400 touring cycling routes available, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

The best time for touring cycling in Dartmoor is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, Dartmoor's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to check forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions, even in summer. Autumn offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage, but days are shorter and weather can be wetter.

Dartmoor's terrain is diverse and often challenging. You can expect wide-open moorland with expansive skylines, punctuated by iconic granite tors. As rivers flow off the high moor, they carve deep valleys often cloaked in broadleaf woodlands. While there isn't much flat riding, the abundance of quiet, often steep lanes provides a rewarding experience. The routes feature narrow lanes and hidden bends, requiring awareness of farm vehicles and free-roaming livestock like ponies, sheep, and cattle.

Yes, while Dartmoor is known for its challenging hills, there are easier options. Out of over 400 routes, 31 are rated as easy. For example, the Tavistock & Burrator Reservoir loop from Yelverton is a moderate route that offers beautiful views without extreme difficulty. The Wray Valley Trail, which forms part of the Dartmoor Way, is also known to be family-friendly and off-road, providing a gentler experience.

Absolutely. Dartmoor is an excellent destination for challenging long-distance touring. There are 198 routes rated as difficult. The Dartmoor Way Cycle Route itself is a prominent 90-mile circular route. Other challenging options include The Dartmoor Way & the High Moorland Link from Buckfastleigh, a 50.7-mile path, and The Dartmoor Way High Moorland Link southern loop from Ivybridge, which covers 60.7 miles.

Yes, Dartmoor is well-suited for circular touring cycling routes. The most notable is the 90-mile Dartmoor Way Cycle Route, which traverses the National Park. An additional 27-mile High Moorland link allows for varied routes, including figure-of-eight options or shorter north and south circular tours. Many other routes, such as the Yelverton & Burrator Reservoir loop from Princetown, are also designed as circular paths.

Yes, Dartmoor offers family-friendly cycling options, particularly on designated off-road trails. The Wray Valley Trail is a good example, providing a gentler, traffic-free experience suitable for families. When planning, look for routes described as 'easy' or 'moderate' and check the elevation profiles to ensure they match your family's ability.

Dartmoor's touring cycling routes are rich with natural features and historical landmarks. You'll encounter iconic granite tors like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, offering panoramic views. River valleys often feature fast-flowing rivers and ancient woodlands. You might also pass by reservoirs such as Kennick Reservoir or Avon Dam Reservoir. The moor is also home to Bronze Age settlements, stone circles, and ancient hut circles, providing historical exploration opportunities.

Yes, Dartmoor offers opportunities for wild swimming, particularly in its rivers and some of its quarry pools. While not directly on every cycling route, many spots are accessible with a short detour. The River Dart is known for its swimming spots, and some quarry lakes like Foggintor Quarry Lake can also be popular. Always exercise caution and check local conditions and safety advice before wild swimming.

Parking is available at various points around Dartmoor, especially in towns and villages that serve as popular starting points for routes. Many car parks are managed by the Dartmoor National Park Authority or local councils. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking information, as some smaller car parks can fill up quickly during peak season.

Public transport access to Dartmoor's cycling routes is possible, though it requires some planning. Buses serve many of the towns and villages around and within the National Park, some of which are on key cycling routes like the Dartmoor Way. Bringing bikes on buses can be restricted, so it's best to check with the specific bus operator beforehand. Train stations in nearby towns like Exeter, Plymouth, and Newton Abbot can connect you to the region, from where you might need to cycle or take a local bus to reach your starting point.

Yes, Dartmoor has numerous pubs, cafes, and accommodation options scattered throughout its towns and villages, many of which are located directly on or very close to popular cycling routes. You'll find traditional pubs offering meals and refreshments, as well as cafes for lighter bites. Accommodation ranges from B&Bs and guesthouses to hotels and campsites. It's recommended to plan your stops, especially on longer routes, as services can be sparse in the more remote moorland areas.

The touring cycling routes in Dartmoor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's stunning and diverse landscapes, from the wide-open moorland and iconic tors to the tranquil river valleys and ancient woodlands. The challenging yet rewarding climbs, quiet country lanes, and the sense of adventure in exploring this unique natural environment are frequently highlighted as key attractions.