The best cycling routes around Lower Tamar Lake

The area offers a diverse network of routes, including cycle-friendly gravel paths, quiet country roads, and off-road trails. You'll find options ranging from easy loops around the lakes to more challenging long-distance rides through rural landscapes. In total, there are over 40 touring cycling routes available.

Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Upper Tamar Lake – Upper Tamar Lake loop from Upper Tamar Dam. This 3.3-mile (5.3 km) path offers a relaxed ride around Upper Tamar Lake, which is also noted as a family-friendly cycling experience in the broader Tamar Lakes area.

For those seeking a more challenging experience, routes like the Helebridge Basin – Widemouth Bay loop from Kilkhampton provide a longer ride of 38.8 miles (62.4 km) with significant elevation changes, leading through varied rural landscapes. There are 17 difficult routes in the area for experienced cyclists.

Many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular moderate circular route is the Upper River Tamar and Tamar Lakes loop, which connects both Lower and Upper Tamar Lakes. The Upper Tamar Lake loop is another excellent circular option.

Lower Tamar Lake is a 35-acre reservoir managed as a nature reserve, offering a tranquil setting amidst the British countryside. You can observe diverse flora and fauna, including over 200 bird species like kingfishers and reed buntings, as well as otters, dragonflies, and butterflies. There's even a bird hide at Lower Tamar Lake for wildlife observation.

Yes, the Tamar Lakes area provides facilities for refreshments. You can find a cafe overlooking the lake at Upper Tamar Lake, and picnic areas are available at both Lower and Upper Tamar Lakes, perfect for a break during your ride.

Beyond cycling, the area offers visitor and interpretation centers at both lakes, watersports like sailing and kayaking at Upper Tamar Lake, a children's play area, and a campsite. The lakes also have historical significance related to the Bude Canal, with parts of the old canal towpath now serving as walking routes.

Parking facilities are available at both Lower and Upper Tamar Lakes, providing convenient access to the various cycling routes and amenities in the area.

The touring cycling routes in Lower Tamar Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the connection between the lakes, and the overall scenic beauty of the area.

The area is generally pleasant for cycling throughout the warmer months. While specific recommendations for touring cycling aren't provided, the natural beauty and outdoor activities are typically enjoyed from spring through autumn. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.

Route durations vary significantly. For example, the Upper Tamar Lake loop is an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) route that takes about 30 minutes. Longer, moderate routes like the The Bush Inn loop from Brexworthy Farm cover 16.8 miles (27.1 km) and can take over an hour and a half, while difficult routes can extend to over 4 hours.

Yes, several routes connect the lakes to other areas. The Upper River Tamar and Tamar Lakes loop connects Lower and Upper Tamar Lakes, offering varied scenery. Additionally, the Bude Aqueduct Trail starts and finishes at Lower Tamar Lake, providing another point of interest.