West Country Cycling Trails

View of the Camel Estuary from the Camel Trail, PadstowView of the New Bridge, Barnstaple from the Tarka Trail

Now that the days are becoming warmer, and the evenings longer, there is nothing so rewarding as an easy ride on two wheels. Both these routes are anything but strenuous, and you will be amazed at the sensational views at the early light of day and at dusk, especially at mid to low tide when the sand banks come into view. It is possible to hire bikes but better, and more comfortable to bring your own.

The Camel Trail is the most cycled route in Britain. A mere 11-miles from Bodmin to Padstow with the extension to Poleys Bridge being recommended. The Trail is suitable and popular with joggers, walkers and cyclists. It is quite a sight watching elderly Gentleman and Ladies of Means attempting to mount a bicycle for (what appears the first time) many years with all the enthusiasm of their grandchildren. Seeing them wobbling off down the Trail with whoops of delight raises a smile, and a knowing nod. The sad thing is that very few actually go beyond this trail to explore the surrounding Cornish countryside. The cycle hire places do not encourage this

but are just happy to take your cash as if its a merry-go-round at the local fair. Is this experience to be "Something To Do" between the bars of Rock and Dinner at Steins, or will the pleasure lead to more.....?

If this rocks your boat, then try the Tarka Trail (more demanding), or the Granite Way, that runs along the northern borders of Dartmoor.

The Tarka Trail (cycling route section) is a dual-purpose walkway-cycleway allowing for relatively easy and safe cycling starting from Braunton (Tarka Cycle Hire). The route runs on tarmac beside the Taw Estuary to Barnstaple, and can be enjoyed depending on the wind direction. Just hope (to god) it follows you otherwise you may be in for a hard trawl. There is abundant wildlife to hold your interest. The route continuing from Barnstaple along the south side of the Taw Estuary is arguably the least interesting section. A bit of a slog. Luckily, the station cafe at Fremington (Cycle Hire) has just opened so be advised to break here for refreshments. On reaching Instow you must make a difficult choice, either to stop off at the Instow Arms http://www.instowarms.com/ for a coffee or pub lunch, or be dazzled by the delicacies and baguettes at John's Deli in Instow. Moving on. The route becomes more interesting as it enters the Torridge Valley to the Puffing Billy pub (Cycle Hire) below Great Torrington, to cross the river to Watergate Bridge, the trail joins a bridle path, and what follows, is in my opinion, the most interesting section. A few steep bits, sylvan woodland, sculptures and varying flowers and wildlife to hold your interest. It is cyclable on a hybrid, touring or folding bike all the way to Meeth. Look out for the excellent, little cafe at Yard, the Railway summit, where they serve hot soup, coffees and homemade cakes. Rest here awhile to read The Guardian and the arts notices. Or, book in to the bunkhouse and camping spot. Bliss. So, there you have 32 miles of traffic-free cycling suitable for all ages. Go for it! And, Oh yes...beautifully illustrated in Goldeneye's Cycling Country Lanes Map-Guides. http://www.goldeneyeguides.co.uk/