7 peaceful and relaxing Devon cycle routes

If you really want to discover Devon in all its beauty, leave your car at the campsite and get on your bike! The popular coastal county of Devon is home to some of the best cycling routes in the UK. This criss-crossing network of paths varies from casual ambles to challenging uphill climbs, taking in some spectacular scenery and sights on the way. Here are seven enjoyable Devon cycle routes that take in lovely scenery along the way.

1. Tarka Trail

The Tarka Trail in north Devon is a popular 30-mile cycle and walking trail which runs along old railway lines through Tarka County. The trail, which is overseen by Devon County Council, has undergone a few changes over the years to make it easier to navigate around the area. New information boards, a downloadable audio guide and 21 points of interest, which outline the history and wildlife in the area, are provided to help you interact with the surroundings. Expect to see woodland, grassland, streams ponds and community orchards on the way.

Discover campsites near the Tarka Trail.

2. Grand Western Canal

This peaceful, level trail follows the beautiful Grand Western Canal tow path. Along the way, you can expect lush, open countryside, charming wooded clearings and views of the Blackdown Hills between Tiverton and the Somerset border. People have been enjoying the country parkland along the canal since 1971 and the canal served as a commercial waterway until 1925. If this trail is a little far from your campsite, you can easily mount your bikes on your car rack and start at the car park in Tiverton. There are also circular routes that can be taken here.

3. Granite Way Trail

Discover the best of rural Devon along this 12km trail which offers spectacular views of the Dartmoor and takes you over the Meldon Viaduct. Since the Granity Way cycle route from Okehampton station to Meldon Viaduct first opened in 2002, this off-road treat has been a real hit with walkers and cyclists alike. Hotspots along the trail include the rolling Dartmoor hills, Meldon Lake, Okehampton Castle and misty views of Exmoor in the far distance.

4. Discovery Trail – Haldon Forest

The sprawling Haldon Forest boasts several cycle trails for all experience levels. The 2.5km Discovery Trail for beginners is most suited to families with younger children. The challenge trail is suited to intermediate cyclists and the Ridge ride trails are difficult routes for experienced bikers. All give you the chance to enjoy the Haldon Forest’s stunning views with plenty of good spots for picnics on the way.

5. Exe Trail

This fairly flat, 26-mile cycle route links Exmoor, Exeter and Dawlish with the River Exe. The Exe Trail is not yet complete, and currently links Exmouth, Exton and Exeter, but the whole route is ridable if you don’t mind going onto the road in a few places. If you don’t want to do the whole thing, we recommend heading over to the Exe Estuary where you can pass through the quaint villages nearby and partake in some top wildlife watching from the water’s edge. A number of activities can also be enjoyed at the estuary, including fishing and boating.

6. Drake’s Trail

Celebrate west Devon’s rich history and one of its most famous residents, Sir Francis Drake, on the Drake’s Trail. This 21-mile route from Tavistock to Plymouth leads you through spectacular countryside passing places which relate to different parts of Drake’s life. A great mix of history and the beautiful outdoors, you take in moorland, river valleys and woodland and iconic manmade features including Gem Bridge and Grenofen Tunnel.

7. Camel Trail

If you hop over the border to neighbouring Cornwall, you can ride on one of the most popular trails in the UK, the Camel Trail. This 18 mile scenic path, which follows a disused railway line from Padstow to Wenfordbridge, is enjoyed by cyclists, walkers and horse riders throughout the year. This largely traffic-free network is a perfect choice for families with numerous toilets, car parks and quiet picnic areas dotted along the trail, with bike hire outlets in Padstow, Wadebridge and Bodmin. Expect plenty of idyllic Cornish countryside treats whilst in this Special Area of Conservation.

With so many top family-friendly trails to seek out whilst in Devon, it’s time to get your bikes out of storage and give your legs a good workout! All these cycle routes offer a brilliant way to see the best that Devon has to offer.