Top 9 Cycle Routes Cornwall

Are you ready to pedal your way through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Cornwall? Regardless of if you're a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely family ride, Cornwall offers a treasure trove of cycling routes that promise adventure, wildlife and stunning views. From gentle paths perfect for families to challenging terrains for the more experienced, each route reveals a unique facet of Cornwall's charm. Join us as we explore the top 10 cycling trails in this captivating region, where every turn offers a new discovery and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of Cornwall.

1. The Camel Trail

Stunning scenery, flat, traffic-free cycling

The famous Camel Trail is a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts, and not surprisingly it's a favourite of ours! This 18-mile traffic-free route follows a disused railway line, connecting Padstow, Wadebridge, and Bodmin. Perfect for leisurely rides, it offers stunning scenery as you pass through woodlands and fields with the River Camel as a backdrop. Accessible to keen cyclists, walkers, horseriders, and wheelchair users, the trail is a haven for wildlife, including wading birds, enhancing the natural beauty of your ride.

Whether you're planning a quick trip or a longer cycling adventure, the Camel Trail is perfect for families, casual riders, and experienced riders alike. So, grab your bike or hire one from us at Bridge Bike Hire and enjoy a cycling route that showcases the best of the Cornish countryside. Grab a free downloadable Camel Trail Map to help you plan your day

2. Lanhydrock Cycle Trails

Located in the heart of Cornwall, Lanhydrock Estates Cycle Trails offer a variety of cycling experiences along the national cycle network. With routes for all skill levels, there's something for everyone. From easy green-grade paths to more challenging bluegrade routes, these trails are perfect for both beginners going at their own pace and more keen bike riders. Lanhydrock includes a Skills Area with a balance bike track, ideal for little ones improving technique and building confidence. The blue-grade trails feature fun technical sections that add excitement to the ride. Cycling through Lanhydrock is a fantastic way to enjoy Cornwall’s natural beauty. The trails wind through quiet lanes and wooded areas, offering a peaceful and scenic backdrop for your cycling adventures.

3. Goss Moor Cycle Trail

The Goss Moor Cycle Trail is a hidden gem in the St Austell area of Cornwall, offering a 7.5-mile flat route through a National Nature Reserve. This option is perfect for bike riders of all skill levels, thanks to its largely flat and easy surfaces. As you ride, you’ll pass through diverse habitats that are home to rare plants and over 70 bird species have been spotted here, making it a nature lover’s paradise. For those looking to extend their ride, the trail links to Tregoss Moor, providing even more opportunities for exploration. The Goss Moor Cycle path provides a serene and scenic journey through Cornwall’s beautiful landscapes.

4. Cardinham Woods

Cardinham Woods is a rider’s paradise, featuring mountain biking trails for all skill levels. The standout Bodmin Beast trail offers a thrilling 7.5-mile ride through the woods near Bodmin Moor. With well-marked paths and a mix of technically challenging sections, it promises excitement for every rider. After cycling, relax at Woods Cafe, a popular local spot known for its excellent hot chocolate. It's a cozy place to unwind and refuel. Cardinham Woods offers a complete outdoor experience, with mountain biking and plenty of nature walks leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

5. The Cornish Way

The Cornish Way spans 195 miles, guiding riders from Land's End to Bude. This route combines traffic-free paths and roads, suitable for various abilities. Completing the entire route takes about 16 hours, offering a chance to discover Cornwall’s diverse landscapes. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful sandy beaches, nature reserves, and historic sites like Botallack tin mines, the Eden project and St Michael’s Mount. Facilities include bike hire and accessible toilets, ensuring a comfortable journey. This cycling route lets you discover the southwest areas fascinating history and natural beauty. If you’d like to try all or part of this adventure get int ouch with Cornwall Bike Hire who have an array of bikes and a delivery service

An epic adventure along Cornwall’s stunning coast.

6. The Clay Trails

The Clay Trails offer a unique cycling experience with collection of shorter cycling trails through the heart of Mid Cornwall’s China Clay Country. As you pedal through these dramatic landscapes, shaped by the region’s rich mining industry, you'll be treated to stunning views and a deep sense of Cornish history. The striking scenery, with its turquoise dams and rugged terrain, makes these trails a really special place for bike riders to investigate. Since opening in 2005, the Clay Trails have become a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts. Regardless of if you're drawn by the industrial history or simply seeking a beautiful ride, the Clay Trails provide a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s past while promising a memorable cycling adventure.

7. Tamar Trails

Stretching for 15.5 miles through the picturesque Tamar Valley (an area of outstanding natural beauty), the Tamar Trails offer a delightful mix of terrains, from enchanting, wooded areas to serene riverside paths. Cyclists are rewarded with amazing views and a diverse riding experience. Unique features like old mines and knotted woodlands add an exciting element of adventure to the ride. At the heart of these bike routes is the Tamar Trails Centre, a hub for outdoor activities and events in the region. With various cycling routes and amenities, the centre is the perfect starting point for your journey. The Tamar Trails seamlessly blend natural beauty with historical intrigue, ensuring an unforgettable cycling experience.

8. Mineral Tramways

Spanning an impressive 37.5 miles, the Mineral Tramways network centres around Redruth and invites you to step back in time and see Cornwall’s industrial past. These trails, open for walkers, cycling and horse riding are linked to the 19th-century Cornish industrial infrastructure, offer a unique cycling experience steeped in history. The Engine House Trail, a 24-mile route along the old railway line, is a standout, offering moderate difficulty and breathtaking views. Regardless of if you're a history buff or simply in search of a scenic ride, the Mineral Tramways have something for everyone.

9. West Kernow Way

The West Kernow Way is a thrilling 143-mile loop that kicks off and wraps up in the charming town of Penzance. It's not just a ride; it's an adventure with 6 stages and over 4,200 meters of elevation gain, perfect for those looking to test their endurance and cycling skills. Along the way, you'll traverse a mix of terrains, from bridleways to peaceful lanes, as you venture into the less travelled corners of west Cornwall in the picturesque Southwest, the east, and the west country. This cycle route is designed to be savoured over three to four days, allowing you to soak in the stunning scenery and attractions that dot the journey, like Cape Cornwall, Kennack Sands and the lizard point peninsula. As you pedal through the final 37-mile stretch back to Penzance, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment, having experienced Cornwall's rugged beauty and the unique charm of its cycle routes.

• Are there cycling routes in Cornwall suitable for beginners?

  Absolutely! The Camel Trail and Goss Moor Cycle Trail are both flat and beginner-friendly, so you’ll have a great time exploring Cornwall on two wheels.

• Can I hire bikes along the cycling routes in Cornwall?

  Absolutely, you can hire bikes at Lanhydrock, Cardinham and along routes like The Cornish Way, or The Camel Trail making it super easy to explore the cycle paths without the hassle of bringing your own. Enjoy your ride! Book here for the Camel Trail and See Cornwall Bike Hire for The Cornish Way

• Are there any family-friendly cycling routes in Cornwall?

  Definitely! The Camel Trail and Cardinham Woods are perfect for family-friendly cycling, with routes suitable for all ages and skill levels.

• What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while cycling in Cornwall?

  You can expect to encounter a diverse range of wildlife while cycling in Cornwall, like rabbits, foxes, deer and various bird species, especially along the Camel Trail and Goss Moor Cycle Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for some amazing sights!

• Are there any historical sites along the cycling routes in Cornwall?

  Absolutely, bike riding in Cornwall offers a chance to see historical sites like the Botallack tin mines along. The Cornish Way and various old mines on the Tamar Trails. So, you can enjoy both the ride and a bit of history! The Camel Trail is full of relics from the it’s past life as a steam train line - especially between Wadebridge and Wenfordbridge

Conclusion

Cornwall’s cycle routes offer a diverse and enriching experience for cyclists of all levels. From the family-friendly Camel Trail to the challenging West Kernow Way, there’s a route for everyone. These trails provide not only a fantastic way to explore Cornwall’s natural beauty but also a deeper connection to its rich history and culture. No matter if you’re a local or a visitor, cycling in Cornwall promises adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. So, grab your bike, (or hire one from us!) hit the trails, and discover the best that Cornwall's cycle routes have to offer.