The best traffic-free bike rides around Roadford Lake

There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Roadford Lake, offering a variety of distances and challenges. These routes are carefully curated to provide a peaceful cycling experience away from busy roads.

Roadford Lake is renowned for its quiet, rolling roads, which were even used for the 2023 Masters National Road Race championship. The area offers diverse landscapes, from scenic lake views to surrounding countryside, providing a tranquil and engaging environment for road cyclists seeking routes with minimal vehicle traffic.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Roadford Lake are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Roadford Lake Valve Tower – Witherdon Wood loop from Bratton Clovelly offers a moderate 40 km ride with beautiful scenery.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for no-traffic road cycling around Roadford Lake, with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colours. Summer can also be excellent, though it's wise to start earlier in the day to avoid the warmest temperatures. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

While many routes are moderate, there are options for beginners. The region offers routes with varying elevation gains. For instance, the 11.8-mile (19.1km) Roadford Lake loop mentioned in regional research is a moderate option with around 200m of elevation, suitable for touring cyclists. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and elevation before you go.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Roadford Lake feature varied terrain. You can expect moderate elevation gains, typically ranging from 400 to 900 meters over distances of 35 to 55 kilometers. For example, the St Michael's Church, Brent Tor – Abbey Bridge and Weir loop from Broadwoodwidger covers 53.5 km with nearly 900 meters of ascent.

Roadford Lake offers ample parking facilities, particularly at the main visitor centre. This provides a convenient starting point for many of the no-traffic road cycling routes. Always check for any parking fees or restrictions upon arrival.

While this guide focuses on road cycling, the wider Roadford Lake area does offer family-friendly cycling paths like the 'Roadford Roller' and 'Roadford Rollercoaster' which are graded cycle paths. For road cycling specifically, look for shorter, flatter routes with minimal elevation if cycling with children, ensuring they are comfortable with the distance and terrain.

Yes, the Roadford Lake area has amenities to help you refuel. The Lakeside Café at the main visitor centre offers locally sourced food and is open daily. Additionally, some routes may pass through or near villages with pubs or small shops, but it's always a good idea to carry snacks and water, especially on longer rides.

Beyond the stunning lake views, the area is a designated Local Nature Reserve, offering opportunities for wildlife observation. You might spot various birds, deer, and other local fauna. The visitor centre also has a gift shop, and there are walking trails, a Jubilee Sundial, and bird hides to explore. For more information on the lake's offerings, you can visit visittamarvalley.co.uk.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Roadford Lake, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the quiet country lanes, the beautiful natural scenery, and the feeling of being truly immersed in the landscape away from vehicle traffic.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more rigorous workout, options extend beyond the immediate lake area. Routes like the St Michael's Church, Brent Tor – Lydford Castle and Saxon Town loop from Stowford offer nearly 48 km with over 700 meters of elevation. More challenging rides can even reach into Dartmoor National Park or towards the Bude Canal, utilizing the region's quiet roads.