The best road cycling routes around Satterleigh And Warkleigh

The Satterleigh And Warkleigh area offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 75 different tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 9 easy, 48 moderate, and 18 difficult options.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, characterized by North Devon's rolling hills and lush green countryside. Routes feature winding rural lanes and varied elevation profiles, from gentle slopes to challenging climbs. While most surfaces are well-paved, some sections may include unpaved or more difficult stretches for those seeking adventure.

Yes, for families and less experienced cyclists, the nearby Tarka Trail is an excellent option. This impressive 30 to 32-mile traffic-free path, built on disused railway lines, offers stunning scenery along the Taw and Torridge estuaries. It's part of the larger Devon Coast to Coast (NCN 27) route and features amenities like cafes along its way.

For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, routes like the River Torridge – Mortehoe Hill Climb loop from Portsmouth Arms cover 88.6 miles (142.6 km) with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Porlock Toll Road – Simonsbath Village loop from Umberleigh, which spans 74.0 miles (119.1 km) and includes challenging climbs.

While cycling, you can explore various points of interest. Notable attractions include the historic Heywood Castle Motte and Bailey, the scenic Caroline Thorpe Memorial, Codden Hill, and the impressive Castle Hill Estate. These offer glimpses into the region's history and natural beauty.

Intermediate cyclists will find plenty of suitable routes. A popular moderate option is the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop from Umberleigh, which is 27.7 miles (44.5 km) long and traverses rolling farmland with picturesque views. Another moderate route is the South Molton Market Square – Viewpoint Near North Hill loop from Chittlehamholt, covering 44.6 km.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in this area, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, the dynamic environment created by the varied elevation profiles, and the lush green countryside that provides a picturesque backdrop for their rides.

Yes, many of the routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the South Molton Market Square – Two Moors Gallery Café loop from Chittlehampton is a 86.8 km circular route that offers varied terrain.

North Devon's climate generally makes spring, summer, and early autumn ideal for road cycling. During these seasons, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy the winding rural lanes and scenic countryside. Always check local forecasts before heading out.

While Satterleigh And Warkleigh are small parishes, the wider North Devon area has some public transport links. For specific routes, you would need to research bus or train services to nearby towns like Umberleigh or Barnstaple, which serve as starting points for several tours. Planning ahead is recommended.

Yes, the region offers various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, especially in the larger towns and villages that many routes pass through or near. The Tarka Trail, for instance, features cafes along its route. It's advisable to check opening times and locations beforehand, particularly in more rural sections.

The rolling hills and lush green countryside of North Devon provide continuous scenic vistas. Specific viewpoints include the Caroline Thorpe Memorial, Codden Hill, and the Codden Beacon Viewpoint, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Many routes naturally pass through areas of outstanding natural beauty.