The best cycling routes around Piel Island

There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in the Piel Island area, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. These routes primarily traverse the Furness Peninsula, with Piel Island serving as a scenic landmark.

The cycling routes near Piel Island are generally characterized by a relatively flat terrain, especially along the 60 kilometers of coastline on the Furness Peninsula. Many routes feature paved surfaces, making them suitable for touring bicycles. You'll find a mix of coastal paths and inland trails, with some loops including moderate to difficult elevation gains as you venture further inland towards areas like Ulverston.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Old Line Walk – Abandoned Boat at Rampside loop from Barrow is an easy 7.4-mile (11.9 km) path that follows a former railway line along the coast. Another accessible option is the Old Line Walk – Old Line Walk loop from Roose, which is just over 10 km long.

For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Ulverston – Knotallow Hill loop from Roose offer varied terrain and significant elevation gain over its 27.7 miles (44.6 km). Another demanding option is the Dalton Castle – Knotallow Hill loop from Roose, which covers 37.3 km with substantial climbing.

Cycling routes in the area offer views of various landmarks and natural features. You can expect to see historic sites like Piel Castle on Piel Island itself, or Furness Abbey which is passed on the Walney Channel Coastal Walk – Furness Abbey loop from Roose. Many routes provide stunning views across Morecambe Bay towards the Lakeland Fells, and you might even spot the prominent Hoad Monument near Ulverston.

While extensive cycling directly on Piel Island is limited due to its small size and terrain, you can access the island by a passenger ferry service from Roa Island during the summer season. The island is a fantastic place to explore on foot, visit Piel Castle, or enjoy a refreshment at The Ship Inn. Roa Island, the ferry departure point, is easily reachable by bike via a causeway from the mainland.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Piel Island area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Ulverston and Hoad Monument – View of Gleaston Castle Ruins loop from Roose and the Coast Road Walkway – Beach at Low Tide loop from Rampside, providing convenient options for exploring the region.

The summer season is generally the best time to cycle around Piel Island and the Furness Peninsula. This is when the passenger ferry to Piel Island operates regularly, and the weather is typically more favorable for outdoor activities. However, the coastal nature of the routes means conditions can change, so checking the weather forecast before you set out is always advisable.

Yes, the region offers various options for refreshments. On Piel Island itself, The Ship Inn is a historic pub known for its unique traditions. Along the mainland routes, particularly in towns like Ulverston or Barrow-in-Furness, you'll find cafes and pubs. Roa Island, the ferry departure point for Piel Island, also has a café.

The Piel Island area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views across Morecambe Bay, the variety of routes catering to different abilities, and the opportunity to combine cycling with exploring historical sites like Piel Castle.

The Piel Island area is rich in wildlife. Piel Island itself is a haven for seabirds, and a marsh pond in its center attracts various species. Near Piel Island, at the South Walney Nature Reserve, lies Cumbria's only seal colony. While cycling along coastal routes, you might spot curious seals or a variety of birdlife, especially in the quieter sections.

Yes, the network of routes around Piel Island and the Furness Peninsula can be combined for longer touring experiences. For example, the Ulverston and Hoad Monument – Ulverston loop from Roose is nearly 50 km long, and by linking various loops and coastal paths, you can create extended tours to explore more of the 60 kilometers of coastline and inland areas.