The best road cycling routes around Atherington

There are over 150 road cycling routes available around Atherington, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews.

Road cycling routes near Atherington offer diverse terrain. You'll find everything from relatively flat, traffic-free paths along river estuaries to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains through the North Devon countryside. While primarily on paved surfaces, some longer routes may include short unpaved sections.

Yes, Atherington's proximity to the Tarka Trail and Devon Coast to Coast route means there are excellent family-friendly options. A significant portion of the Tarka Trail, particularly between Braunton and Meeth, offers 30 miles of flat, traffic-free cycling on a converted railway line, ideal for families or less experienced cyclists.

Absolutely. Atherington is a great starting point for longer rides. For example, the challenging River Torridge – Beam Aqueduct loop from Chapelton covers 86.2 miles (138.8 km) with substantial climbing. Another option is the Porlock Toll Road – Simonsbath Village loop from Umberleigh, which is 119 km long and features over 2300 meters of elevation gain.

Many routes around Atherington are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Barnstaple Clock Tower – Barnstaple Long Bridge loop from Umberleigh is a moderate 27.7-mile path offering riverside scenery. Another popular circular option is the Bideford Bridge – Victoria Park, Bideford loop from Chapelton, a 33.1-mile trail through the Torridge River valley.

The region offers splendid coastal scenery, river estuaries, woodlands, and the edges of national parks. Along your rides, you might encounter landmarks such as the Beam Aqueduct, the historic Barnstaple Clock Tower, or enjoy views of the River Taw. The Tarka Trail: Instow to Fremington section is also a highlight.

The road cycling experience in Atherington is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from flat, traffic-free sections to challenging climbs, and the beautiful natural landscapes including river valleys, woodlands, and coastal views.

Yes, advanced road cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes around Atherington. Approximately 56 routes in the area are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and longer distances. The Porlock Toll Road – Simonsbath Village loop from Umberleigh, for example, offers over 2300 meters of climbing over 119 km.

North Devon generally offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for longer days and exploring coastal routes. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather, especially on exposed moorland sections.

Yes, the region is home to the renowned Tarka Trail and parts of the Devon Coast to Coast route, which offer extensive traffic-free sections. The Tarka Trail, in particular, provides a 30-mile flat, traffic-free path between Braunton and Meeth, perfect for a relaxed ride away from vehicles.

Many cycling routes in North Devon, including sections of the Tarka Trail and Devon Coast to Coast, connect towns like Barnstaple, Bideford, and Ilfracombe, which typically offer parking facilities. These towns are also generally accessible by public transport, making it possible to reach starting points without a car. Specific parking details for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages.

While Atherington itself is inland, its strategic position in North Devon provides easy access to routes that feature splendid coastal scenery. The broader North Devon area, traversed by routes like the Tarka Trail and Devon Coast to Coast, is known for its beautiful coastlines, offering stunning views for cyclists.

Absolutely. Atherington serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider North Devon region. The extensive cycling networks like the Tarka Trail and the Devon Coast to Coast route connect various villages and towns, allowing you to combine your ride with visits to places like Barnstaple, Bideford, or even the fringes of Exmoor National Park. For more information on cycling in the broader region, you can visit Visit Devon's cycling guide.