The best traffic-free bike rides in North Devon Aonb

North Devon AONB offers a diverse mix of terrain, even on its quieter routes. You'll find paths that are mostly paved, hard-packed gravel sections, and some routes that follow old railway lines, which are typically smooth and car-free. While some trails are suitable for all skill levels, others might present moderate challenges with elevation gains, requiring good fitness.

Yes, routes converted from old railway lines are often ideal for families due to their relatively flat and continuous gravel surfaces, offering a safe, traffic-free environment. The region's varied topography means you can find options ranging from easy rides to more challenging ones, ensuring there's something for different family abilities.

Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes in North Devon AONB are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café loop from Barnstaple offers a moderate circular ride of over 31 km, providing a great way to explore the area.

The North Devon AONB is rich in natural beauty. Depending on your chosen route, you could encounter dramatic coastal scenery, unique geological formations, and diverse habitats. Highlights in the wider area include the stunning Baggy Point viewpoint, the distinctive Blackchurch Rock at Mouthmill Beach, and the impressive Spekes Mill Mouth Waterfall. The historic village of Clovelly is also a nearby attraction.

Yes, the North Devon AONB and surrounding areas are known for routes that utilize former railway lines, which are excellent for gravel biking due to their gentle gradients and car-free nature. An example is the Puffing Billy Trading Co. – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Great Torrington, which offers a moderate 40 km ride along such paths.

The difficulty varies, but many no-traffic gravel trails in North Devon AONB are considered moderate. This means they are suitable for most riders with a reasonable level of fitness, often involving some elevation gain. For instance, the Steep Overgrown Woodland Path – Technical MTB Descent loop from Braunton is a moderate 20 km route with nearly 280 meters of ascent.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For routes starting in towns or villages like Barnstaple or Great Torrington, you'll typically find public car parks. For more remote trailheads, look for designated parking areas or consider starting your ride from a location with easy access and parking, such as a local village or visitor center.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in North Devon AONB, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but trails might be busier, especially near coastal attractions. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections, and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, some routes pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. For example, the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Bike Shed Bike Shop & Café loop from Barnstaple explicitly mentions a bike shop and café, indicating opportunities for refreshments and services along the way. Planning your route to include stops in local settlements is a good idea.

The komoot community often praises the stunning coastal scenery, the sense of tranquility on car-free paths, and the diverse terrain that keeps rides interesting. Riders appreciate the opportunity to explore hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and lush valleys away from vehicle traffic, making for a truly immersive outdoor experience.

The duration of these trails varies depending on their length and your pace. For example, a moderate 20 km route like the Steep Overgrown Woodland Path – Technical MTB Descent loop from Braunton might take around 1.5 to 2 hours, while longer routes such as the 40 km Puffing Billy Trading Co. – Mosaic Otter Sculpture loop from Great Torrington could take 2.5 to 3 hours or more, depending on stops and fitness levels.