The best traffic-free bike rides in East Devon AONB

There are over 70 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in the East Devon National Landscape. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options.

The East Devon National Landscape offers diverse terrain. You'll find routes along the dramatic red cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, through intimate wooded combes, vast heathlands like the Pebblebed Heaths, and along tranquil river valleys such as the Axe, Otter, and Sid. Many traffic-free paths utilize former railway lines or dedicated cycle paths, offering relatively flat sections, while some routes may include gentle undulations or more challenging climbs, especially when venturing inland.

Yes, East Devon National Landscape has several family-friendly options. The Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway loop from Budleigh Salterton is an excellent choice, offering a relatively flat and easy ride. The Exe Estuary Trail, though not listed as a specific komoot route here, is also a popular 16-mile traffic-free option suitable for families, running along both sides of the Exe Estuary.

Many routes offer stunning natural sights. You can cycle past the dramatic red cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle, marking the western end of the Jurassic Coast, and the awe-inspiring Ladram Bay Sea Stacks. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve and the River Otter are also prominent features, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes are designed as circular loops. For example, the Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway – Budleigh Salterton Beach loop from Budleigh Salterton offers a pleasant circular ride. The Buzzard Route, an 80-mile circular route encompassing Sidmouth, Seaton, Axminster, Honiton, and Woodbury, also incorporates traffic-free sections.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The vibrant colours of spring wildflowers and autumn foliage add to the scenic beauty. Summer is also popular, but routes can be busier, especially coastal sections. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather and shorter daylight hours.

The East Devon National Landscape is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the tranquility of the river valleys, and the variety of traffic-free paths that allow for peaceful exploration away from cars. The diverse landscapes, from dramatic cliffs to ancient woodlands, are frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Absolutely. The region is known for its beautiful estuaries. The Otterton Mill – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop from Budleigh Salterton is a great example, offering a ride alongside the River Otter. The Exe Estuary Trail also provides extensive traffic-free cycling along the Exe River, popular for its wildlife and scenic views.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the East Devon Trail (EDT) is a 115-mile bikepacking route that showcases the region's diverse habitats, including significant traffic-free sections. While not exclusively traffic-free, it's designed to minimize road use. Another option is the Buzzard Route, an 80-mile circular route that partly follows National Cycle Network Route 2, offering a substantial ride with quiet sections.

Yes, many routes in East Devon National Landscape provide spectacular sea views, particularly those along the Jurassic Coast. The Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway – Exmouth Beach and Seafront loop from Budleigh Salterton offers coastal vistas, including views of Budleigh Salterton Beach. The Beer to Seaton Coastal Path also provides dramatic clifftop views, though sections may be more suitable for walking or mountain biking.

Elevation gain varies significantly. Many dedicated traffic-free paths, especially those on former railway lines or along estuaries, are relatively flat. For instance, the Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway loop has an elevation gain of around 120 meters over 9.3 km. However, routes that venture into the inland hills and combes, such as the Talaton Pub – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop, can have more substantial climbs, reaching around 280 meters over 34 km, offering a more challenging experience.