The best road cycling routes around Sheepstor

There are over 60 road cycling routes around Sheepstor, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy loops to challenging rides with significant elevation gain across Dartmoor's varied terrain.

Yes, Sheepstor offers several routes suitable for beginners and families. The Burrator Reservoir and Dam – Fox Tor Café loop from Meavy is a moderate 26.7 km ride that circles the tranquil Burrator Reservoir, known for its picturesque scenery and mostly paved surfaces. The Burrator Reservoir loop itself is an easy 7.89 km ride, popular with all fitness levels.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, the Postbridge Clapper Bridge – Wray Valley Trail loop from Yelverton is a difficult 81.7 km route featuring significant elevation gain across Dartmoor's rugged landscape. This route offers a demanding ride through varied terrain.

Yes, many routes around Sheepstor are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular option is the Burrator Reservoir and Dam – Fox Tor Café loop from Meavy. For a more extensive tour, the Dartmoor Way, a 95-mile circular route, is also accessible from Sheepstor, encompassing rugged paths and quiet country lanes.

Road cycling around Sheepstor offers diverse scenery, from the tranquil waters of Burrator Reservoir framed by rising tors and woodland, to expansive open moorland characteristic of Dartmoor National Park. You'll encounter striking granite tors like Sheepstor Tor, wooded trails, and potentially historic features such as prehistoric remains.

Along the routes, you can explore various natural and historical landmarks. The Burrator Reservoir is a central feature. You might also encounter impressive tors such as Bellever Tor or Longaford Tor. The Plym Valley Trail, which runs into Plymouth, features dramatic industrial ruins and impressive viaducts like Gem Bridge.

Yes, the Plym Valley Trail offers a traffic-free cycling experience. This route runs through National Trust-owned woodland along the River Plym, providing a safe and scenic path away from vehicle traffic, eventually leading towards Plymouth city center.

The road cycling routes around Sheepstor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the picturesque scenery around Burrator Reservoir, and the options available for different skill levels.

While specific cafes and pubs vary by route, the region around Sheepstor, being part of Dartmoor National Park, has several villages and towns where you can find refreshments. The Burrator Reservoir and Dam – Fox Tor Café loop from Meavy specifically mentions a café, indicating options are available in the area.

The best time for road cycling in Sheepstor is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and more predictable. While winter cycling is possible, conditions on Dartmoor can be challenging with colder temperatures and potentially adverse weather. Always check local forecasts before heading out.

Parking is available at various points around Sheepstor and Burrator Reservoir, as well as in nearby villages like Yelverton or Meavy, which serve as common starting points for many routes. Specific parking availability may vary, so it's advisable to check maps or local information for your chosen starting location.

Public transport options to Sheepstor and the surrounding Dartmoor area can be limited. While some bus services connect larger towns on the edge of Dartmoor, direct access to all trailheads by public transport might be challenging. Planning your route in advance and checking local bus schedules is recommended.