The best road cycling routes around West Putford

Road cycling around West Putford primarily features quiet rural lanes and the rolling Devon countryside. You'll encounter an intricate network of roads connecting quaint villages and isolated farms, offering diverse scenery with a mix of open areas and wooded sections. The eastern and northern boundaries of the parish also follow the scenic River Torridge.

Yes, West Putford offers several road cycling routes suitable for beginners. Out of the 75 available routes, 10 are classified as easy, providing a gentle introduction to the area's quiet rural lanes and picturesque countryside.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, West Putford offers routes with significant elevation gains. One such route is the Meldon Viaduct – Cornish Country Lanes loop from Milton Damerel, which covers 91.3 km with over 1100 meters of ascent, leading through varied landscapes including Cornish country lanes. There are 10 difficult routes in total.

Many routes offer glimpses of local charm and natural beauty. You might pass by the historic 13th-century Kismeldon Bridge along the River Torridge. For a unique stop, consider visiting The Gnome Reserve, a quirky attraction within West Putford itself. The area also provides access to the scenic Hobby Drive, known for its mystical woodlands and coastal views, and the Upper Tamar Lake.

Yes, the majority of road cycling routes around West Putford are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Tarka Trail – River Torridge loop from Milton Damerel and the Blackberry Farm Tea Room loop from Milton Damerel, offering convenient options for exploration.

The road cycling routes in West Putford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Cyclists often praise the quiet rural lanes, the serene escape offered by the rolling Devon countryside, and the varied terrain that caters to different skill levels.

West Putford's quiet rural lanes and less trafficked roads make it a good option for family-friendly road cycling, especially on the easier routes. The serene countryside provides a safe and enjoyable environment for families to explore together. Look for routes classified as 'easy' for the most suitable options.

While specific cafes or pubs directly on every route may vary, the region's quaint villages often host traditional pubs and tea rooms. For instance, the Blackberry Farm Tea Room loop from Milton Damerel suggests a specific stop. Exploring nearby villages will likely reveal options for refreshments.

The rolling Devon countryside is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. The quiet rural lanes are generally enjoyable outside of heavy winter weather, which can bring more challenging conditions.

While specific parking areas for each route are not always designated, many routes start from villages like Milton Damerel. Look for public parking facilities within these villages or consider accommodation providers that offer parking for guests, which can serve as a convenient starting point for your rides.

West Putford is a rural area, and public transport options might be limited. While local bus services connect some villages, bringing a road bike on these services can be challenging. It's often more practical to travel by car to a suitable starting point in one of the villages or to an accommodation with parking.