The best traffic-free bike rides in East Devon

East Devon offers nearly 30 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult. This includes 3 easy, 14 moderate, and 12 difficult routes, ensuring options for various skill levels and preferences.

The terrain in East Devon is incredibly varied, from the dramatic coastline and rolling hills to ancient woodlands and tranquil river valleys. You'll encounter mixed surfaces typical of gravel riding, including well-surfaced paths, bridleways, and some more challenging tracks. Elevation changes can be significant, especially on routes like the Castle Drogo and Fingle Bridge route, which features over 1000 meters of ascent over 55 kilometers.

Yes, East Devon has options suitable for families. The Exe Estuary Trail is particularly noted for being mainly flat and off-road, making it ideal for all ages. While not exclusively gravel, it offers sections suitable for gravel bikes and a safe, car-free environment. For a dedicated gravel experience, consider shorter, moderate routes like the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths loop from Colaton Raleigh, which is around 12 kilometers.

East Devon's trails offer stunning natural beauty. You can ride through parts of the Exe Estuary Trail, offering picturesque views of the River Exe. Explore the unique landscapes of the East Devon National Landscape, including the 'Pebblebed Heaths' on routes like the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths loop. The coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, with landmarks such as Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle. You might also spot wildlife along the River Otter, known for its wild beavers, or visit the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve.

East Devon is enjoyable for gravel biking year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can be beautiful, though some trails might be muddier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in East Devon are designed as loops. For example, the Exe Estuary Trail boardwalk loop from Bicton offers a moderate 27.5 km ride. Another option is the Blackhill Quarry Trail loop from Exmouth Community College, which covers about 24 kilometers through varied terrain.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in East Devon, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, the abundance of quiet, traffic-free paths, and the stunning coastal and inland views. The variety of terrain, from challenging climbs to gentle estuary paths, is also a common highlight.

Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a longer and more challenging adventure, the Castle Drogo and Fingle Bridge route is a difficult 55-kilometer ride with significant elevation gain. The broader East Devon Trail, while not entirely traffic-free, is a challenging 185-kilometer bikepacking route that incorporates many gravel tracks and showcases the region's diverse habitats.

Many routes in East Devon pass through or near charming towns and villages where you can find refreshments. For instance, the Topsham to Woodbury Common route starts near Topsham, a historic riverside town known for its maritime heritage and eateries. The Exe Estuary Trail also connects several towns with cafes and pubs, making it easy to plan a stop.

Distances vary widely, from shorter loops around 12 kilometers, like the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths loop (approx. 1 hour), to longer, more demanding rides of up to 55 kilometers, such as the Castle Drogo and Fingle Bridge route (approx. 4 hours 45 minutes). Moderate routes typically range from 24 to 30 kilometers, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours to complete.

Yes, areas like Lympstone and Broadclyst are recognized for their gravel riding opportunities. The Woodbury Common Perimeter Singletrack is also a popular spot for off-road cycling. The Exe Estuary Trail provides a fantastic, largely traffic-free experience around the estuary.