The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Day

There are over 170 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around St. Day, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, short rides to more challenging loops through the historic mining landscape.

The terrain varies, often featuring a mix of paved paths and well-maintained gravel tracks. Many routes utilize old railway lines, providing relatively flat and smooth surfaces. However, some loops, especially those exploring the Poldice Valley mining ruins, may include unpaved segments or gentle inclines, offering a diverse cycling experience.

Yes, several routes are ideal for families. The Twelveheads Cafe loop from Chacewater is an easy option, as is the Bike Chain Bissoe Café – Poldice Valley Mining Ruins loop from Carharrack. These routes often feature mostly paved surfaces and minimal elevation, making them suitable for younger riders or those seeking a relaxed pace. Tehidy Country Park also offers extensive paths perfect for family outings.

Many of the no-traffic trails around St. Day are dog-friendly, especially those that follow old railway lines or traverse woodland areas like Tehidy Country Park and Kennall Vale. Always keep your dog on a lead, especially near livestock or other trail users, and ensure you clean up after them. Check specific trail regulations before you go.

The routes are rich in history and natural beauty. You'll cycle through the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site, encountering impressive engine houses and mining relics. Natural features include the tranquil Kennall Vale nature reserve with its old gunpowder factory ruins, and the stunning coastal views if your route extends towards areas like Portreath Beach or Falmouth Harbour. Highlights like Poldice Valley Mountain Bike Trails and Warrine Mine Shaft, Unity Wood offer glimpses into the region's past.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around St. Day are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Downhill Gravel Track – The Old Tramway loop from St. Day offers a moderate circular ride, and the Gwennap Pit loop from Carharrack is another popular option.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many trails. For instance, routes like the Bissoe Trail often have designated parking areas at trailheads. For specific routes, such as those starting from Carharrack, you can usually find local parking options. It's advisable to check local signage or online maps for precise parking locations before your ride.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for cycling in St. Day. The weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are vibrant with spring blooms or autumnal colours. Summer can also be pleasant, but trails may be busier, especially near coastal areas. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions on unpaved sections.

Yes, several routes pass by or are close to cafes and pubs. The Bike Chain Bissoe Café – Poldice Valley Mining Ruins loop, as its name suggests, includes a café. The region's villages often have local pubs where you can stop for a break and refreshments, especially in areas like Carharrack or Chacewater.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes around St. Day are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.47 out of 5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the peacefulness of the trails, the historical mining landscapes, and the variety of terrain that caters to different cycling abilities.

Yes, St. Day is well-situated for accessing parts of the Coast to Coast Trail (also known as the Bissoe Trail). Many local no-traffic routes connect directly or indirectly to this popular trail, allowing you to extend your ride and explore further across Cornwall's historic mining district. Routes starting from Carharrack, for example, often link into the wider network.