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Dartmouth is a quaint town in South Devon, England, and recently has emerged as the ultimate cycling destination. Surrounded by the South Devon National Landscape with differing terrains, it allows mountain biking trails promising thrills and road routes around quaint villages. From easy rides down the Dart Valley to scenic coastal trails, this amount of route and terrain variety makes the cycling scene a true gem, with its unique blend of scenic beauty, charming town life, and challenging routes for cyclists at every skill level. Be it a gentle ride down the Dart Valley, or an opportunity to take in the cycling culture of the town, Dartmouth has something for every kind of cyclist. So pack up your bike, slip on your cycling shoes and get ready to explore the enchanting cycling routes of Dartmouth, UK, a cycling paradise that will leave you breathless and eager to return, as we detail the best cycling spots in Dartmouth to suit any rider…
Best Cycling Spots In Dartmouth
Dartmouth Castle and Compass Cove
Starting from the historic Dartmouth Castle, this 6 km mountain biking trail is an easy and scenic option, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The route winds its way through the lush South Devon National Landscape, offering breathtaking views of the Dart Estuary and the English Channel. The trail is well-marked and features gentle gradients, making it an ideal introduction to the area’s off-road cycling.
Kingswear Coastal and The Warren Circular
Kingswear Coastal and The Warren Circular-This is more challenging at 9.3 km and has been classified as a moderately difficult looped trail. It takes you through some of the brilliant coastal paths, woodland singletrack, and gravels. There are a couple of technical sections, steep climbs, and, of course, high-level exhilarating descents that make this one of the favourites for any intermediate mountain biker. The cycling route goes hand in hand with beautiful vistas that portray the rugged coastline and tranquil Dart Estuary.
Kingswear to Brixham via the South West Coast Path
A good test for more experienced mountain bikers is the trail from Kingswear to Brixham via the South West Coast Path. This demanding route takes in the iconic South West Coast Path-a challenging, technical ride along the dramatic cliffs and rocky terrain of the South Devon coastline. Extremely steep sections, narrow trails, and technical descents make this route an advanced route that only skilled mountain bikers should attempt.
Stoke Fleming to Blackpool Sands Circular
Easy and scenic, the Stoke Fleming to Blackpool Sands Circular is for those who do not want a strenuous experience in mountain biking. A pleasant 8km circular with gentle gradients takes one through pretty coastal countryside on good trails. It’s a great route for beginners and leisure rides alike, as there are some fantastic views of the sandy beaches and rugged cliffs that characterise this part of the South Devon coastline.
Dart Valley Cycle Way
Stretching for 7 miles along the River Dart, the Dart Valley Cycle Way is a popular road cycling route that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and wildlife. The route takes riders through the picturesque town of Totnes, where they can enjoy the charming historic centre and stop for refreshments. With gentle gradients and well-paved surfaces, this route is suitable for cyclists of all abilities, making it a great option for a leisurely day out.
The Dart Delight
From the Shops at Dartington, the Dart Delight follows the tranquil River Dart trail to the charming village of Ashprington. This 8-mile route out offers peaceful and picturesque riding with ample time and options to take in natural beauty. The route is on the main pretty flat and on good-paved roads, making it a good option for leisure riders and families.
Dartmouth Lower Ferry – Coastal views loop from Kingswear
The road cycling in Dartmouth Lower Ferry – Coastal views loop from Kingswear is an intermediate ride for those who want to make it a bit more challenging. Presenting both paved and smooth gravel surfaces, this 15 km loop entails gentle gradients with the added adventure of a ferry crossing. Panoramic views of Dart Estuary and stunning coastline vistas in South Devon add flavour to the ride.
Dartmouth riverside loop from Kingswear
Another intermediate-level road cycling route in Kingswear is the Dartmouth riverside loop, offering a good 12 km ride along the pretty Dartmouth waterfront. In general, this is a very well-paved loop, though there are some gentle climbs. It offers fabulous views of the historic town and the River Dart.
As you can see, cycling in Dartmouth ranges from white-knuckle biking on mountains, to road rides at a more leisurely pace. There is something to suit all tastes and levels of expertise. For the experienced and not-so-experienced cyclist, there is something for everyone to enjoy in and around the Dartmouth area. Whatever your form of cycling, Dartmouth and the surrounding areas offer a simply exceptional diversity of cycling experience. Whether it’s adrenaline-packed mountain biking or gentle scenic cycling, this magical corner of South Devon has something to amuse and stimulate cyclists of every age and ability.
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