The best cycling routes around Cann Woods

There are over 320 touring cycling routes available around Cann Woods on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Touring cycling routes in Cann Woods primarily feature a mix of terrain, including well-maintained cycling paths, former railway lines like the Plym Valley Trail which are often relatively flat and accessible, and gravel paths through the extensive mixed woodland. You'll find both paved and unpaved sections, suitable for various touring bikes.

Yes, Cann Woods offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the View of the River Plym – Saltram Amphitheatre loop from Leigham is an easy 10.4-mile (16.7 km) path, often on paved surfaces, providing scenic views of the River Plym. The Plym Valley Trail, part of the National Cycle Network, is also known for its accessible, relatively flat paths.

Cyclists can enjoy several historical and natural attractions. You'll traverse impressive structures like the Cann Viaduct and pass through the Plym Valley Trail Tunnel, both remnants of the area's railway past. The Plym Valley Trail itself offers dramatic industrial ruins and towering cliff faces. Nature enthusiasts can also visit the Peregrine Falcon Viewing Platform to spot wildlife.

Yes, many routes in Cann Woods are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Plym Valley Trail – Cann Woods Gravel loop from Plym Bridge, which is a moderate 9-mile (14.5 km) trail featuring gravel paths through the woods.

Cann Woods is enjoyable year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful with blooming bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic. The mixed woodland offers shade in summer, and the former railway lines tend to be less affected by wet weather than natural trails. Always check local conditions, especially after heavy rain, as some unpaved sections might be muddy.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, routes like the Plym Valley Trail – Grenofen Tunnel loop from Plym Bridge offer a difficult 49.2-mile (79.2 km) journey with significant elevation changes, leading through the Plym Valley and past the Grenofen Tunnel.

Parking is available at various access points to Cann Woods. The Plym Bridge area is a common starting point, and you can find specific parking information by checking local council websites or maps for designated car parks near the trailheads. For more information on the area, you can visit the Plymouth City Council website.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the accessibility of the Plym Valley Trail, and the blend of natural beauty with historical railway features. The variety of routes, from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging long-distance rides, is also frequently highlighted.

While specific cafes directly within the woods might be limited, the region research indicates that picnic tables are available for those wishing to enjoy a meal amidst nature. For more substantial options, routes like the Warrens Bakery – Scarlet's Kitchen loop from Bickleigh suggest that amenities like bakeries and kitchens are accessible along some of the longer routes or in nearby villages.

Yes, public transport options are available to reach the Cann Woods area. While specific bus routes or train stations directly at trailheads might vary, the region's proximity to Plymouth means that public transport connections to the general vicinity are feasible. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving areas like Plym Bridge or Leigham, which are common starting points for rides.

Yes, the Plym Valley Trail, which runs through Cann Woods, is part of the National Cycle Network Route 27 and the Devon Coast to Coast ride. Additionally, the West Devon Way long-distance trail also passes through the woods, offering opportunities to extend your touring cycling adventures further afield towards areas like Bickleigh Vale, Yelverton, and Burrator Reservoir.