Cycling in Cornwall

Cycling is great way to get around and explore while in Cornwall. It’s the ideal place for getting on two wheels and escaping away from it all. With so much to see in Cornwall, a bike gives you the time and independence to explore the countryside and its towns and villages. From the refined Camel Trail and Coast to Coast Trail, which are ideal for those with young children, to the tough, North Cornwall coastal road that provide some of the steepest gradients in the county.

Cycling in Cornwall offers visitors a great variety of routes from quiet country lanes, which meander through picturesque villages and ancient harbours, to more challenging off-road routes which explore the depths of the Cornish countryside. A few of the most popular routes are:

The Cornish Way:
This is the complete National Cycle Network route from Land’s End to Bude. The ride follows National Cycle Network routes 3 and 27 through some of the most beautiful countryside in Cornwall. The ride passes through Camborne, Redruth, Penzance, Truro, St Austell and Bodmin with several fantastic coastal sections to enjoy along the way.

The Camel Trail:
Families flock to the Camel Trail for its simple, off-road ability. Following an old railway line it means there are no inclines; the whole trail is lovely and flat, perfect for those that have recently mastered being on two wheels or for grown-ups carrying treasured loads. The best bit about this route is that it runs from Wenfordbridge near Bodmin, to the foodie heaven of Padstow, so it’s great for refuelling the family at the other end.

The Bodmin Beast Trail:
This 12km cycle trail explores the slopes of the Cardinham Valley and as the name beast suggests, it requires more than a little skill and courage. Setting the standard for single track trails in Cornwall, the Bodmin Beast has keen mountain bikers and skilled off-roaders in its sights and those up to the test will face invigorating climbs and descents throughout this tough trail.

Cornwall is a fantastic holiday destination, not only for cyclists. To find out even more about what there is to explore and see, check out our comprehensive Things To Do in Cornwall guide.

Photo by Benjamin Elliott on Unsplash