The best MTB trails around Loxhore

There are over 25 mountain bike routes around Loxhore, offering a variety of experiences. These include 4 easy trails and 23 moderate trails, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Yes, Loxhore and the surrounding North Devon area offer several easy mountain bike trails. A great option is the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop from Barnstaple, which is 19.4 km long and takes about 1 hour 2 minutes. The Tarka Trail, a largely traffic-free path, is also excellent for families and beginners, offering well-maintained surfaces along the River Taw.

The terrain around Loxhore is diverse, ranging from the predominantly flat, well-maintained tarmac and compacted gravel of the Tarka Trail along the River Taw, to more challenging off-road experiences. You'll find bridlepaths, woodlands, and hilly sections, especially as you venture towards Exmoor National Park, which features open moorland, valleys, and dramatic coastal landscapes.

Absolutely. Many trails offer stunning views and pass by notable natural features. For dramatic coastal scenery, consider the Valley of Rocks – View over Lynmouth Beach loop from Parracombe. You can also find viewpoints like Holdstone Hill Summit View and Codden Beacon Viewpoint along various routes, offering expansive vistas of the North Devon landscape.

The mountain bike trails around Loxhore are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to challenging moorland and coastal routes, and the variety of options available for different skill levels.

Yes, several routes are designed to pass by amenities. The Codden Hill – Quay Café loop from Swimbridge, for example, is a popular choice that includes a café stop. The Tarka Trail also has numerous bike hire facilities and cafes conveniently located along its path. For a pub stop, the Hunter's Inn is a notable highlight in the area.

Yes, for longer rides, the Barnstaple Castle – Lankham Brake Bridleway loop from Barnstaple covers 47.1 km, taking around 3 hours 14 minutes. Another excellent option is the River Taw – Fremington Quay Café loop from Barnstaple, which is 51.7 km long and typically takes about 3 hours 2 minutes to complete.

The North Devon region, including Loxhore, is generally good for mountain biking from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and trail conditions are more favorable. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can be wet and muddy, especially on off-road sections.

Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington section offers picturesque riverside views. You might also encounter the historic Stone Bridge over the River Heddon or the dramatic coastal feature of Little Hangman.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trails. For routes starting in Barnstaple, there are various parking options within the town. For trails like those around Codden Hill or sections of the Tarka Trail, designated parking areas are usually provided, though it's always advisable to check specific starting points for details.

Yes, public transport can be used to access some mountain bike trails, particularly those starting from larger towns like Barnstaple. The Tarka Trail, for instance, is well-connected by public transport in towns along its route, making it convenient for cyclists. Always check local bus or train schedules for routes that accommodate bikes.

Yes, Exmoor National Park, located close to Loxhore, is a significant draw for mountain bikers. It offers over 400 miles of bridleways, providing extensive riding across open moorland, scenic valleys, and dense woodland. Exmoor is known for its challenging singletrack and breathtaking views, catering to more rigorous mountain biking experiences.