The best road cycling routes around Exeter

Exeter offers a diverse range of road cycling terrain. You'll find largely flat, traffic-free paths along the Exe Estuary, quiet country lanes winding through picturesque countryside, and more challenging climbs with significant elevation gains in areas like Dartmoor National Park. The region caters to various fitness levels, from leisurely rides to demanding routes.

Yes, for easier rides, the Susquehanna and Lackawanna Rivers loop offers a moderate but accessible option. The Exe Estuary Trail, mentioned in the guide's introduction, is also known for being largely flat and traffic-free, making it ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride.

For more challenging rides, routes extending into Dartmoor National Park provide significant elevation gains and sweeping moorland scenery. While specific routes are not detailed in the provided data, the region research indicates options like the Dartmoor Classic loops. The Lithia Valley Road – Luzerne County Levee Trail loop from Yatesville is classified as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gain.

Along your rides, you might encounter natural features like the Susquehanna River and Campbells Ledge Reservoir. Additionally, the Market Street Bridge is a notable man-made structure. For those venturing further, Frances Slocum State Park offers a scenic stop.

Yes, several circular routes are available. Examples include the Susquehanna and Lackawanna Rivers loop, the Wilkes-Barre to Harvey's Lake and Frances Slocum State Park loop, and the Susquehanna Warrior Trail Loop, all offering varied distances and elevations.

The region is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. The Exe Estuary Trail is enjoyable year-round, but for routes in Dartmoor or Exmoor, drier conditions are preferable. Always check local weather forecasts, especially when planning rides in the national parks, as conditions can change rapidly.

Yes, particularly along the popular Exe Estuary Trail, you'll find charming villages like Lympstone and Exton that offer cafes and pubs, perfect for a break and refreshments. For other routes, especially those in more rural areas or national parks, it's advisable to carry sufficient supplies.

For longer distances, consider routes that incorporate sections of the National Cycle Network (NCN), such as the 'Devon Coast to Coast' route (NCN27), which spans 100 miles. The Dartmoor Way Cycle Route is also a 95-mile circular option around Dartmoor National Park, utilizing quiet Devon lanes and traffic-free sections.

This guide features 15 road cycling routes around Exeter, ranging from moderate to difficult in terms of challenge. These routes have been explored by over 55 road cyclists using komoot.

Exeter has good public transport links, including train stations that can provide access to various starting points for rides, particularly along the Exe Estuary. For routes extending into Dartmoor or other rural areas, public transport options might be more limited, so planning ahead is recommended.

Yes, the Wilkes-Barre to Harvey's Lake and Frances Slocum State Park loop and the Wilkes-Barre to Frances Slocum State Park loop both incorporate sections near Frances Slocum State Park, offering scenic cycling opportunities within these natural areas.

The road cycling routes around Exeter offer a mix of difficulty levels. This guide includes 13 moderate routes and 2 difficult routes, ensuring options for cyclists with varying experience and fitness levels. The Exe Estuary Trail is generally easy, while routes in Dartmoor are typically more challenging.