The best MTB trails around Blisland

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Blisland, offering a variety of experiences. These include 8 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 3 more difficult options, catering to different skill levels.

The terrain around Blisland is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from the wild, open expanses of Bodmin Moor to rich, wooded river valleys. Some trails, like sections of the Camel Trail, offer flatter surfaces along old railway lines, while others, particularly in areas like Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods, feature significant elevation changes and more technical sections, sometimes requiring riders to push their bikes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in Blisland, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on moorland trails. The area's designation as an International Dark Sky Landscape also makes it unique for stargazing if you're out at dusk.

Yes, Blisland offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. A great option is the Walter's Plantation – Lodge Trail, Lanhydrock Estate loop from Woods Cafe, which is an easy 7.4-mile route through pleasant woodlands. The Camel Trail also provides a largely flat and accessible experience.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Blisland area, particularly around Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods, offers routes with significant elevation gain and more technical sections. The Cardinham and Lanhydrock loop from Bodmin is a difficult 31.9-mile route with nearly 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding ride.

Yes, the region is well-suited for family cycling. The Camel Trail, which follows an old railway line, is particularly family-friendly due to its flatter surface and scenic views along the Camel estuary. For a shorter, easy woodland experience, consider the Walter's Plantation – Lodge Trail, Lanhydrock Estate loop from Woods Cafe.

Many trails in the Blisland area are dog-friendly, especially those in Cardinham Woods and along the Camel Trail. However, it's always best to keep dogs under control, particularly in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations. Remember to carry water for your dog and clean up after them.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Blisland are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Lanhydrock & Cardinham Woods loops offers a 14.6-mile circular route through extensive woodlands. The The Cribbar Descent – Woods Café, Cardinham Woods loop from Colesloggett Halt is another moderate circular option.

The Blisland area is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the ancient woodlands of Lavethan Wood, or venture onto Bodmin Moor to see prehistoric remains like the Trippet Stones and the Hurlers Stone Circles (The Hurlers Stone Circles). Other notable features include Brown Willy Summit and Rough Tor, offering expansive views. The Camel Trail itself follows the scenic Camel Estuary.

Yes, Blisland village itself has a traditional inn, and areas like Cardinham Woods often have cafes, such as Woods Cafe, which can be a great stop during or after your ride. The Camel Trail also passes through several towns and villages with pubs and cafes, offering plenty of opportunities for refreshments.

Parking is generally available at key access points for popular trail networks. For instance, Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods have dedicated parking facilities. When planning your route, check the starting point for specific parking information. Blisland village also has parking options for exploring the local area.

The mountain biking experience around Blisland is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from nearly 90 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from open moorland to wooded river valleys, and the variety of trails suitable for different abilities. The scenic beauty of the Camel Estuary and the tranquil atmosphere of the woodlands are frequently highlighted.