The best road cycling routes around Exeter

Exeter offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 50 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different preferences, ranging from easy, flat rides to more challenging ascents.

The region provides diverse terrain for road cyclists. You can find flat, traffic-free paths along the Exe Estuary and Exeter Canal, as well as routes with significant elevation gain towards the edges of Dartmoor and Exmoor for more challenging rides. Former railway lines like The Granite Way offer predominantly flat sections with scenic countryside views.

Yes, Exeter has several easy and family-friendly options. The Exeter loop via Taylor River is an easy 17.0-mile path, ideal for a relaxed ride. The Exe Estuary Trail and Exeter Canal Cycle Route are also mostly flat, traffic-free, and perfect for families, offering beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the edges of Dartmoor and Exmoor offer routes with significant climbs and varied terrain. The Exe Valley route also provides a moderately challenging ride with some elevation gain, offering a different experience for those looking for more demanding cycling.

Exeter's road cycling routes are rich with scenic beauty. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Exe Estuary, pass through beautiful countryside along the Exeter Canal, and experience vistas of Dartmoor from routes like The Granite Way. The city's Valley Parks, such as Henderson-Swasey Town Forest, also offer natural open spaces close to the city.

Yes, many routes around Exeter are designed as loops. For example, the Exeter to Linn Ponds loop via Pickpocket Dam is a popular moderate circular route. The Exe Estuary Trail also forms a 26-mile loop around the estuary, connecting Exeter with coastal towns.

Parking is available at various points to access routes. For the Exe Estuary Trail, you can find parking in Exeter, Topsham, Exmouth, and Dawlish. Haldon Forest Park and The Granite Way (near Okehampton and Lydford) also offer designated parking facilities for cyclists.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Exeter, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the diverse network means you can find suitable routes year-round, with some sheltered estuary paths being enjoyable even in cooler months.

Yes, many routes offer convenient stops. The Exeter Canal Cycle Route passes pubs like the Double Locks. Coastal towns accessible via the Exe Estuary Trail, such as Exmouth and Dawlish, also provide numerous cafes and eateries. The city of Exeter itself has a wide range of options for refreshments.

The road cycling experience in Exeter is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, well-developed cycle networks, and the variety of routes catering to all abilities.

Road surface quality varies. Routes like the Exe Estuary Trail and Exeter Canal Cycle Route are generally well-maintained and traffic-free, often on paved or smooth compacted surfaces. The Granite Way, following a former railway line, also provides a good surface. Inland routes may include quiet country roads with typical road surfaces, so it's always good to check route details for specific conditions.

Yes, Exeter is recognized as cycle-friendly with many routes designed to keep cyclists away from heavy traffic. The Exe Estuary Trail and Exeter Canal Cycle Route are almost entirely traffic-free. Additionally, Exeter's extensive internal cycle network often utilizes quiet roads and shared off-road paths, making it easy to navigate the city safely by bike.

Exeter has good public transport links. The city's train stations and bus network can provide access to various starting points for routes. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail connects directly to towns like Exmouth and Dawlish, which are accessible by train, allowing for one-way rides or easy return journeys.