The best cycling routes around Holcombe Burnell

There are over 400 touring cycling routes in the Holcombe Burnell area, catering to various skill levels. This includes 89 easy routes, 163 moderate routes, and 149 difficult routes, offering a wide range of options for exploration.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Exeter Quayside – Exeter Ship Canal loop from Exeter St Thomas is an easy 20.4-mile path that follows the historic Exeter Ship Canal and Quayside, providing a less strenuous way to explore. The Exe Estuary Trail, which is part of the National Cycle Network, also offers mostly traffic-free sections ideal for families.

The routes around Holcombe Burnell traverse a diverse landscape featuring rolling countryside, rural valleys, and proximity to Dartmoor National Park. You'll encounter picturesque views along the River Teign tributary, historic sites like Cotley Castle, and scenic stretches along the Exe Estuary. Many routes also include sections through ancient woodlands and along disused railway lines.

Absolutely. Cyclists can explore various points of interest. The historic Exeter Ship Canal and vibrant Exeter Quayside are popular stops. You might also pass by the scenic Fingle Bridge with its beautiful woodland views, or cycle along the Exe Estuary Trail offering coastal vistas. The area also features historic architecture like the Church of St John the Baptist.

Haldon Forest Park, located nearby, offers numerous cycle trails catering to various skill levels, from easy family routes to more challenging mountain biking trails like the Ridge Ride Extreme. It provides facilities such as bike hire at Forest Cycle Hire, parking, and often has cafes and restrooms available for visitors.

The touring cycling routes around Holcombe Burnell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from easy canal paths to challenging climbs, and the beautiful natural scenery, including river valleys and views towards Dartmoor National Park.

Many routes, particularly those connected to Exeter, are accessible via public transport. Exeter St Thomas, for example, serves as a starting point for routes like the Exe Estuary Trail loop, which can be reached by train. For routes further into the countryside, local bus services might offer connections, though options can be more limited.

Parking is available at various starting points for routes, especially in and around Exeter, and at popular attractions like Haldon Forest Park. For specific routes, checking the komoot tour details will often provide information on recommended parking locations. Many villages and towns along the National Cycle Network also offer parking facilities.

Many trails in the Holcombe Burnell area, including sections of the Exe Estuary Trail and paths within Haldon Forest Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or other trail users, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

Yes, several routes pass through or near towns and villages offering cafes, pubs, and shops. The Exeter Quayside is a vibrant area with numerous food outlets. The The Ridge Café loop from Shillingford St George is even named after a popular refreshment stop. The Turf Hotel & Marina is another popular spot along the Exeter Ship Canal.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While some routes are accessible year-round, conditions can be wet and muddy after rain, especially on unpaved sections, and winter can bring colder temperatures and shorter days.

The routes vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops like the The Ridge Café loop from Shillingford St George at 8.8 miles (14.2 km), or longer, more challenging tours such as the Exeter, Dawlish & Haldon loop which covers 51.6 miles (83.0 km). There are options ranging from short, easy rides to full-day adventures.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are numerous difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Exeter, Dawlish & Haldon loop, for instance, is a difficult 51.6-mile route with over 850 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Exeter Quayside – Moretonhampstead Village loop, which features nearly 900 meters of climbing over 42.9 miles.