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Road cycling routes
United Kingdom
England
South West England
Devon
South Hams

South Pool

The best road cycling routes around South Pool

4.8

(24)

853

riders

69

rides

Road cycling routes around South Pool are situated within the South Devon National Landscape (AONB), characterized by rolling green hills, diverse coastlines, and tranquil estuaries. The region offers a blend of quiet country lanes, coastal vistas, and varied elevation profiles. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse wooded banks, open moorland, and picturesque villages.

Best road cycling routes around South Pool

  • The most popular road cycling route is Hope Cove & Thurleston loops from Salcombe, a 22.1 miles (35.5 km)…

Last updated: May 2, 2026

5.0

(3)

33

riders

#1.

Hope Cove & Thurleston loops from Salcombe

35.5km

01:51

490m

490m

This moderate 22.1-mile road cycling route from Salcombe explores the picturesque South Devon coast, passing Hope Cove and Thurlestone.

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Moderate

3.0

(1)

11

riders

Easy 12.2-mile road cycling loop from Salcombe, offering coastal views, charming villages, and a visit to Hope Cove Harbour Beach.

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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Tom Stockwell
April 26, 2026, Hope Cove Harbour Beach

Stunning beach, with Public W/C gets busy in summer months

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Great beach, stunning sw views with Cafe and public W/C.

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Andy Smith
April 30, 2025, Co-op Salcombe

Doesn't show up yet in all of Streetview.

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Andy Smith
April 30, 2025, Co-op Salcombe

Useful for stocking up for camping food if you don't want to pay £7.50 plus for a bacon bap in Salcombe.

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The road runs out here but there's a short stretch of coast path you can push the bike along over to the next headland where you can pick up asphalt road again rather than cutting back inland. Not advisable with cleats on though.

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In 1219 Kingsbridge was owned by the Abbot of Buckfast who needed an outlet where the monks could sell their produce: honey, beeswax, candles, soap and mead. So the Abbot petitioned the Crown for permission to hold a market at Kingsbridge and a Royal Charter was granted. As a Market Town, Kingsbridge has thrived through its independent businesses, often family-run for generations and relying upon the local community's support. A small chapel existed on the site of St. Edmund's Church in the 13th century but the burial ground was at Churchstow, a village two miles to the west. In 1309 the parishioners petitioned the Bishop and complained of the difficulty of carrying their dead "up the mountain" to Churchstow for burial. However it was more than 100 years before permission was granted "to the Abbot and monks of Buckfast to build a church in honour of the blessed Edmund, King and Martyr in their demesne and the vill which is called Kingsbrigg". In 1798 the town mills were converted into a woollen manufactory, which produced large quantities of cloth. During the 19th century the town had an active coastal shipping trade, shipbuilding, a tannery and a large monthly cattle market. The chief exports were cider, corn, malt and slate.

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51m
September 21, 2023, South Milton Sands

South Milton Sands is a large, pretty sandy beach. Great for some sand sprints. The coast path doesn't go down to the beach, but it's worth a detour if you aren't going for an FKT.

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Winking Prawn offer a great breakfast and coffee stop.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around South Pool?

There are nearly 70 road cycling routes around South Pool listed on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 8 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 13 more challenging rides.

What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in the South Pool area?

The South Pool area, nestled within the South Devon National Landscape (AONB), features a diverse landscape. Cyclists can expect a mix of rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and tranquil estuaries. Routes often follow quiet country lanes, offering continuous scenic views of the coast, wooded banks, and charming villages.

Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families around South Pool?

Yes, there are several easy routes. For instance, the Hope Cove loop from Salcombe is an easy 19.7 km path offering beautiful coastal scenery. The region generally provides options from flat paths to more demanding rides, ensuring something for everyone.

What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks I can see along the road cycling routes?

Many routes offer stunning coastal vistas and pass by notable landmarks. You might encounter dramatic cliffs and rugged sea rocks at Prawle Point, or enjoy the sandy shores of South Sands Beach. Other points of interest include Sharp Tor Coastal Path and Bolt Head, providing breathtaking views of the South Devon coastline.

Are there any circular road cycling routes in the South Pool region?

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Hope Cove & Thurleston loops from Salcombe, a moderate 35.5 km ride, and the South Milton Sands – View of Salcombe loop from Salcombe, which is 24.5 km long and takes you through coastal landscapes.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in South Pool?

The road cycling routes around South Pool are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the continuous scenic views of the coast and charming villages, the blend of quiet country lanes, and the diverse terrain that caters to various ability levels.

Are there any challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?

Yes, the South Pool area offers routes with significant elevation gain for more experienced cyclists. Out of the nearly 70 routes, 13 are classified as difficult. For example, the View of Salcombe Harbour – Salcombe War Memorial loop from Salcombe is a moderate 36.9 km route with over 600 meters of elevation gain, providing a good challenge.

What is the best time of year to go road cycling in South Pool?

The South Hams region, including South Pool, benefits from a mild climate, which often allows for year-round cycling. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many routes remain accessible due to the mild conditions.

Are there places to stop for refreshments or accommodation near the cycling routes?

Yes, the area is dotted with charming villages and towns. South Pool itself has the renowned pub, The Millbrook Inn. Nearby towns like Kingsbridge and Salcombe offer additional points of interest, shops, galleries, and various refreshment stops and accommodation options. Many routes pass directly through or near these places.

Can I combine road cycling with other activities or attractions in the South Pool area?

Absolutely. Beyond cycling, the region offers numerous attractions. You can visit historic sites like Overbeck's House and Gardens, explore the sandy Hope Cove Beach, or observe wildlife at Charleton Marsh or Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. The South Devon AONB is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Are there any road cycling routes that connect to other towns or villages?

Yes, several routes link South Pool to other charming towns and villages in the South Hams. For instance, the Kingsbridge Harbour – Salcombe Ferry Dock loop from Frogmore and Sherford connects these key locations, offering a chance to explore different areas and potentially use the scenic ferry trip across the estuary.

Where can I find more information about cycling in South Devon?

For additional information about cycling opportunities and general visitor information in the wider South Devon area, you can visit the official tourism website: Cycling in South Devon.

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