Ilfracombe to Plymouth
Length 102 miles (one way)
Route National Cycle Network 27, 3
Start Ilfracombe
Finish Plymouth
Sustrans map NN27 (The Devon Coast to Coast)
Route National Cycle Network 27, 3
Start Ilfracombe
Finish Plymouth
Sustrans map NN27 (The Devon Coast to Coast)
This spectacular and pioneering route is an ideal introduction for keen cycling families and groups who fancy a multi-day challenge (really, the scenery and cream teas are too good not to take things steadily). The ride slices Devon in two, travelling from the beaches and estuaries in the north to the lush green valleys of the Torridge, the Tavy, the Walkham and other evocative West Country rivers.
Heading south from the coast at Ilfracombe, the route runs via Braunton (reputedly the largest village in England), Barnstaple, Bideford, Great Torrington, Hatherleigh, Okehampton and around the western flank of Dartmoor National Park to Tavistock and Plymouth. It follows the course of former railway lines through tunnels and across breathtaking viaducts and bridges for much of its length.
Besides the stunning scenery, 71 miles of the route are completely traffic-free, including the famous Tarka Trail - one of the country's longest and most popular traffic-free paths. This 35-mile section from Braunton to Meeth is great for family rides and boasts wonderful estuary views. You will also travel on the Granite Way - an 11-mile, predominantly traffic-free section of the ride that links Okehampton to Lydford and offers unrivalled views of the moors from the Meldon viaduct.
Just be aware that once you venture off the flat railway paths the terrain can get tough, so be prepared for steep gradients and the occasional rough surface. Otherwise, it's a perfect cycling long weekend!
Get it in your diary for 24-26 May...... entry forms to be released next week.
http://www.sustransshop.co.uk/products/5264-the-ultimate-devon-coast-to-coast-guide
Heading south from the coast at Ilfracombe, the route runs via Braunton (reputedly the largest village in England), Barnstaple, Bideford, Great Torrington, Hatherleigh, Okehampton and around the western flank of Dartmoor National Park to Tavistock and Plymouth. It follows the course of former railway lines through tunnels and across breathtaking viaducts and bridges for much of its length.
Besides the stunning scenery, 71 miles of the route are completely traffic-free, including the famous Tarka Trail - one of the country's longest and most popular traffic-free paths. This 35-mile section from Braunton to Meeth is great for family rides and boasts wonderful estuary views. You will also travel on the Granite Way - an 11-mile, predominantly traffic-free section of the ride that links Okehampton to Lydford and offers unrivalled views of the moors from the Meldon viaduct.
Just be aware that once you venture off the flat railway paths the terrain can get tough, so be prepared for steep gradients and the occasional rough surface. Otherwise, it's a perfect cycling long weekend!
Get it in your diary for 24-26 May...... entry forms to be released next week.
http://www.sustransshop.co.uk/products/5264-the-ultimate-devon-coast-to-coast-guide
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