Sibleyback and Colliford loop from Bodmin

Heading out to the east to explore the glorious expanse of Bodmin Moor, this Tour starts by taking in plenty of lanes to link the off-road sections through Cardinham Woods. Then it takes you around Sibleyback Reservoir and back into Bodmin along the upper reaches of the Camel Trail from Blisland.

You’ll start by heading out of Bodmin towards Cardinham Woods via smaller residential streets and a gravel climb to cross the A30. A short stint on the road leads you to bridleways across the wind farm fields and down into the wooded valley of Cardinham.

Enjoy the wide gravel tracks through the trees as you head up the valley alongside Cardinham Water, eventually rejoining the road to climb past Cardinham village and to the edge of Cornwall AONB.

Follow this undulating tarmac road due east to St Neot and beyond, climbing to Golitha Falls. It’s really worth hopping off your bike here to explore the cascades of the River Fowey through the woods.

Another off-road section is up next, with a complete 3 mile (5 km) lap of Sibleyback Reservoir on a traffic-free gravel track. Rejoining the road, you follow the River Fowey north on a very gentle incline, before turning left towards Colliford Lake. This is Cornwall’s largest lake, and on clear days you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of Cornwall’s highest peak, Brown Willy.

Alas, there’s not the same cycling-friendly path provision around Colliford Lake as you enjoyed at Sibleyback, but the views are still gorgeous from the road. After crossing over the A30, some descending is finally in order, which leads you down into Blisland village and to the River Camel, where you can pick up the Camel Trail.

This traffic-free cycle route yields an easy pedal back into Bodmin to conclude your ride, with countless scenic spots for a pause and snack stop en route.