The best cycling routes around Buckfastleigh

Buckfastleigh offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll find rugged moorland with dramatic granite tors, picturesque rolling countryside, and routes along the River Dart. While many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, some segments, especially on more challenging rides into Dartmoor National Park, may be unpaved.

Yes, there are options for easier rides. For instance, the Rafikis Café – St Andrew's Church, Ashburton loop from Buckfastleigh is an easy 7.4-mile (11.8 km) trail leading through the local countryside. The region's rolling countryside and riverbanks also provide gentler paths suitable for families.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Buckfastleigh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Viewpoint at Hockmoor Head – Rafikis Café loop from Buckfastleigh, which offers panoramic views on a moderate 11.6-mile (18.7 km) path.

The area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the dramatic granite tors of Dartmoor National Park, enjoy views of the River Dart, or visit sites like Buckfast Abbey. Specific highlights include Combestone Tor and Haytor Rocks. The Dartmeet and Clapper Bridge – Combestone Tor loop from Buckfastleigh is a difficult route that takes you past some of these iconic Dartmoor features.

Buckfastleigh is a great starting point for longer rides. The renowned Dartmoor Way, a 108-mile circular route skirting Dartmoor National Park, passes through or near the town. A challenging section of this is the Dartmoor Way & the High Moorland Link from Buckfastleigh, a 50.7-mile (81.5 km) trail.

The touring cycling routes around Buckfastleigh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from the challenging moorland climbs to the scenic river valleys, and the stunning natural beauty of Dartmoor National Park.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. For example, 'Rafikis Café' is mentioned in the names of several routes, indicating its popularity as a stop for cyclists. The town of Buckfastleigh itself and nearby villages offer cafes and pubs where you can refuel.

Absolutely! You can combine your ride with a visit to Buckfast Abbey, a working Benedictine monastery with tranquil grounds. The heritage South Devon Railway offers steam train journeys through the Dart Valley, and you could cycle one way and take the train back. The nearby River Dart Country Park also offers mountain bike tracks and other outdoor activities.

Buckfastleigh is served by local bus routes that connect to larger towns like Totnes and Plymouth, which have train stations. While specific bus services for cyclists might be limited, you can plan your journey to Buckfastleigh via public transport and then access the cycling routes directly from the town.

Yes, the proximity to Dartmoor National Park means there are plenty of challenging routes with significant elevation. The The Station House – Left Lake loop from Buckfastleigh is a difficult 54.2-mile (87.2 km) route with over 800 meters of ascent, offering a substantial workout and rewarding views.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the Dartmoor landscape is beautiful year-round. Be prepared for changeable weather, especially on the moor, regardless of the season.

Many routes offer stunning vistas, particularly those venturing into Dartmoor. The Viewpoint at Hockmoor Head – Rafikis Café loop from Buckfastleigh is specifically named for its viewpoint. Additionally, tors like Combestone Tor and Rippon Tor provide panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and countryside.