The best cycling routes around Sheepstor

There are over 100 touring cycling routes around Sheepstor, offering diverse options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 109 routes in the area, with 15 easy, 58 moderate, and 36 difficult trails.

You can expect a varied terrain, typical of Dartmoor National Park. Routes often combine quiet country lanes, designated cycle paths, and disused railway lines. You'll encounter both paved and unpaved surfaces, with elevations ranging from 33 to 611 meters, providing both scenic views and challenging climbs.

Yes, there are several easy, family-friendly options. A popular choice is the Burrator Reservoir loop — Dartmoor National Park, which is an easy, paved 7.9 km route suitable for all fitness levels. This loop offers scenic views around the reservoir.

Many routes around Sheepstor are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Grenofen Tunnel – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Yelverton is a moderate 32.8 km circular trail that takes you through the historic Grenofen Tunnel and past the scenic Burrator Reservoir.

While cycling around Sheepstor, you'll encounter prominent granite tors like Sheepstor Tor, Leather Tor, and Sharpitor, offering panoramic views. The scenic Burrator Reservoir is a central feature, and you might pass by ancient woodlands such as Wistman's Wood. Other natural highlights include various brooks, streams, and even waterfalls like Shavercombe Falls. You can also explore other lakes such as Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) or Crazywell Pool.

Yes, the area utilizes disused railway tracks for cycling. The Princetown Railway Routes, part of the 'Granite & Gears' network, offer routes like the 'Princetown & Burrator route' which is a 20 km moderate ride crossing open moorland and reaching Burrator Reservoir. You can also cycle through the historic Shaugh Tunnel on the Shaugh Tunnel – Plym Valley Trail loop from Yelverton.

Parking is generally available at key access points around Dartmoor National Park and near popular trailheads. For routes around Burrator Reservoir, there are designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific starting points for parking availability before your ride.

Many routes on Dartmoor are dog-friendly, especially those on bridleways and byways. However, dogs should be kept under close control, particularly during lambing season or when near livestock. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially around nature reserves or private land.

Yes, you'll find local amenities in nearby villages. For example, The Royal Oak Inn in Meavy is a welcoming pub often frequented by cyclists and walkers, providing refreshments after a ride. Other villages around Dartmoor also offer cafes and pubs.

The best time to go touring cycling in Sheepstor is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. Summer offers the warmest conditions, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Winter cycling is possible but can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potentially wet or icy conditions on higher moorland routes.

Generally, you do not need a permit to cycle on public roads, bridleways, and designated cycle routes within Dartmoor National Park. However, always respect private land and follow the Countryside Code. For more detailed information on cycling regulations within the National Park, you can visit the official Dartmoor website: visitdartmoor.co.uk.

The touring cycling routes around Sheepstor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic beauty of Burrator Reservoir, the mix of challenging and easy terrains, and the opportunity to explore historic sites and natural features like ancient woodlands and granite tors.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes with significant elevation gains. An example is the Burrator Reservoir and Dam – Postbridge Clapper Bridge loop from Meavy, a 32.3 km route with over 560 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience across the moorland.