The best cycling routes around Cornwall

Komoot offers over a dozen touring cycling routes in Cornwall, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging paths to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, Cornwall offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For example, the Bike loop from West Cornwall is an easy 4.1-mile trail that takes about 25 minutes to complete. The region's disused railway lines, like the Camel Trail, are also renowned for their flat, traffic-free surfaces, ideal for a gentle ride.

Cornwall's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to inland moorlands and river valleys. You'll encounter coastal paths, rolling hills, and woodlands, providing varied gradients. Historic mining areas and estuaries also contribute to the unique geographical features along the routes.

Many routes in Cornwall are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Housatonic State Forest loop from West Cornwall is a moderate 8.4-mile path, and the West Cornwall Covered Bridge – Valley Road loop from West Cornwall is a 14.5-mile option. The Goss Moor Cycle Trail is another well-known circular route in the region.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Cornish Way is an epic 195-mile journey that traverses picturesque villages, industrial heritage sites, rivers, and coastline. While not a single komoot tour, sections of it can be explored, offering a rewarding experience across the region.

Cornwall's routes often pass through stunning natural landscapes. You can expect rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and dramatic headlands along the coast. Inland, you might encounter wild moorlands like Bodmin Moor, tranquil river valleys, and ancient woodlands. The Camel Estuary is also a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for birdwatching.

Yes, the Mineral Tramways Network offers 37 to 60 km of traffic-free trails exploring Cornwall's historic mining heartland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Routes like the 11-mile Coast to Coast Trail follow old tram roads and railways, passing historic mine buildings and unique wildlife habitats.

The touring cycling routes in Cornwall are highly regarded by the komoot community. Many visitors praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to woodlands, and the variety of options available for different ability levels. Over 19 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region's varied landscapes.

Yes, many of Cornwall's popular cycling routes, especially those following disused railway lines or passing through villages, offer opportunities for cafe stops and pub visits. The Camel Trail, for example, connects towns like Padstow and Wadebridge, which have numerous eateries. Exploring routes that pass through fishing villages like Mevagissey or Charlestown also provides chances to enjoy local cuisine.

Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather for touring cycling in Cornwall, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. However, the region's coastal climate means conditions can change rapidly, so it's always wise to be prepared for varied weather regardless of the season.

Absolutely. While there are many easy and moderate routes, Cornwall's hilly coastal terrains and moorlands offer challenging experiences for experienced cyclists. The region has routes with significant elevation changes, such as the Valley Road loop from West Cornwall, which features over 300 meters of ascent.

Public transport options, including buses and trains, can help you access various cycling routes across Cornwall. Many popular trails, such as the Camel Trail, have towns along their length that are served by public transport. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.