Stunning Cycling Routes in Devon

With the Tour de France about to start and the spell of lovely weather in Devon recently, cycling is our current obsession!  We can't wait to watch the Tour de France, especially with part of the cycle route taking part in the UK.  However, we can't help but think the the Tour de France route should have been planned to include some of our Devon cycle routes.

That's right, as cyclists everywhere will tell you, canvasing for beautifully scenic routes with just the right conditions for your chosen level of difficulty becomes a constant quest.  We think that cycling is one of the best ways to see Devon in all its glory, and if you are considering a cycling holiday, we suggest you look to Devon.

But if you are planning a cycling holiday to Devon, which cycling routes should you try?

Slapton Ley

There are a few trails that run through Slapton Ley, meaning you can tailor this experience to your cycle.  Trails can cross the village, the beach, around the lake and nature reserve, and into Start Valley.  Choose one of these beautiful routes or combine them to make a long, endurance ride.

Haytor

Of course, the Tour of Britain last year did recognise Devon for all its exciting cycling potential. The Devon stage finished with a climb from Bovey Tracey at 35 metres above sea level, up to the summit of Haytor, Dartmoor, at 390 metres above sea level!

Princetown

A punishing seven mile climb following a disused rough railway, this route passes three tours and gets views across Dartmoor from Plymouth to Tavistock and beyond.  It also passes Burrator, a picturesque natural beauty spot.

Topsham

The Exe Estuary Cycle Trail takes in views of Exmouth, Lympstone, Exton, Exeter, Powderham, Starcross, Dawlish and Topsham.  We recommend a spell in Topsham's cycling cafe Route 2 - the only cycle cafe so far in the South West!

Drakes Trail

Coast to coast of Devon, all the way from Ilfracombe in the North to Plymouth in the South.  This 21 mile route can be taken in one go for an epic adventure or in smaller chunks as it is a network, including the smaller Plym Valley Trail.  With coastal view, moorland climbs, historic sites and a myriad of pubs and eateries along the way, this trail is the one to beat!

We hope we've inspired you to dust off the cycle and head down to Devon, whether you like to be challenged or prefer a sedate pace to take in the views, we've got a cycle trail for any type of cycling holiday in Devon.

And of course, once you've burned all those calories, you can have a little reward!  We'd recommend one of our Devon Cream Tea Hampers taken al fresco!

Do you think the Tour de France should have a Devon section?  Did we miss your favourite cycle route?  Let us know by leaving us a comment below on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or Pinterest