The best cycling routes around Budleigh Salterton

There are over 10 touring cycling routes around Budleigh Salterton, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

The terrain varies significantly. You can find smooth, tar-surfaced paths, often following disused railway lines through peaceful woodlands, such as sections of the Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway. Other routes feature coastal paths with stunning views and some more challenging sections, as well as trails across the Pebblebed Heaths.

Yes, the area offers several family-friendly options. The Budleigh-Exmouth Cycleway – Exmouth Beach and Seafront loop from Budleigh Salterton is particularly suitable, largely following a disused railway line with smooth, tar-surfaced sections through woodlands, making it ideal for relaxed rides.

Budleigh Salterton is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, so you'll encounter dramatic red sandstone cliffs and the distinctive pebble beach. Many routes, like the Otterton Mill – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop, pass through the ecologically rich River Otter Estuary, a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for birdwatching and its beaver colony. You might also pass viewpoints like Orcombe Point.

Yes, many routes around Budleigh Salterton are designed as loops. Examples include the Otterton Mill – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop and the Salcombe Hill Cliff – River Otter Bike Path loop, which allow you to start and finish in Budleigh Salterton without retracing your steps.

Budleigh Salterton has various public car parks available in the town center and near the beach, which are convenient starting points for many cycling routes. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on local council websites or detailed route descriptions.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the coastal paths and woodlands can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing beautiful foliage and winter offering quieter routes, though some paths might be more exposed to the elements.

Budleigh Salterton is connected by local bus services, which can be useful for reaching different parts of the region or returning to your starting point. While some buses may accommodate bicycles, it's advisable to check with the specific bus operator beforehand, especially for longer journeys or during peak times.

Yes, Budleigh Salterton itself offers a selection of cafes and pubs. Additionally, routes often pass through or near charming villages like Otterton, which has Otterton Mill, a popular spot for refreshments. The coastal towns of Exmouth and Sidmouth, accessible via connecting paths, also provide numerous options.

Budleigh Salterton's unique appeal lies in its location within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, its integration into the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, and the presence of the River Otter Estuary with its diverse wildlife, including beavers. This combination offers cyclists stunning geological formations, rich biodiversity, and varied landscapes from coastal views to peaceful woodlands and heathlands.

For those seeking longer rides, routes like the Otterton Mill – River Otter at Ottery St Mary loop cover a moderate distance of 21.6 miles (34.8 km). The area also connects to the National Cycle Network Route 2, providing access to broader cycling adventures for more extensive tours.