Mortonhampstead, Bovey Tracey & the Teign Valley loop from Ide — Dartmoor National Park

This loop is rated as a "difficult" road ride, requiring a very good level of fitness. It covers approximately 58 kilometers (36 miles) with a significant elevation gain of around 950 meters (over 3,100 feet). You'll encounter steep climbs, such as the Doccombe Climb, and some segments may be unpaved or gravel, particularly along the Wray Valley Trail section.

While much of the route is well-paved, cyclists should be prepared for varied terrain. The section between Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead, which often uses the Wray Valley Trail, is described as mostly gravel and compact gravel. This means a bike with suitable tires, such as gravel, mountain bike, or hybrid tires, might be beneficial, even though the route is designated for racebikes. Expect steep climbs and undulating country lanes.

The route is approximately 58 kilometers (36 miles) long with significant elevation. On average, it takes around 3 hours to complete, but this can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how many stops you make.

The loop starts from Ide, near Exeter. While specific parking details for Ide aren't provided, you would typically look for public parking areas within or near the village to begin your ride.

You'll experience diverse and picturesque Dartmoor scenery, including rolling hills, river valleys, and glimpses of rugged moorland. Highlights include views over the Wray Valley with its farmland and sheep, and beautiful vistas of Kennick and Tottiford Reservoirs. The route also passes through quiet country lanes and the National Trust Parke Estate.

Yes, there are several opportunities for refreshment. You'll pass through villages like Moretonhampstead and Bovey Tracey, which offer cafes and pubs. Specifically, you can find Baskervilles Ice Cream Parlour & Coffee Shop and Cafe 3 Sixty along the way. The route also offers numerous scenic viewpoints, particularly over the Wray Valley and the reservoirs.

Dartmoor National Park can be enjoyed year-round, but for road cycling, the spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most favorable weather conditions with longer daylight hours and less chance of rain or strong winds. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

While the route is primarily a road cycling loop, dogs are generally welcome in Dartmoor National Park. However, on the cycling sections, especially those on roads or shared paths like the Wray Valley Trail, dogs should be kept under strict control, preferably on a leash, to ensure their safety and that of other users. Be mindful of livestock in rural areas.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this loop within Dartmoor National Park.

Yes, this loop incorporates sections of several other trails. Notably, it utilizes about 16% of the Wray Valley Trail and approximately 10% of the broader Dartmoor Way cycle route. You'll also briefly intersect with parts of the River Teign Walk and the Dunsford to Moretonhampstead Trail.

The Wray Valley Trail, while generally easy to ride as it follows a disused railway line, does include some short, steep hills and gravel sections. If you're on a racebike, be prepared for these surface changes and potential climbs. It's a beautiful, mostly traffic-free section, but it's good to know what to expect for tire choice and effort.