The Five Best Cycle Routes in Cornwall
With our diet on hold for mince pies, our smart casual wear traded in for the Christmas jumper and chef’s apron, and our daily worries put aside for panic present buying, Christmas can be both an exciting and stressful period for all involved. Once the anti climax sets in and the remaining family members head home, take the opportunity to hit the road yourself for some well deserved you time.
Cornish Traditional Cottages are perfect for a three-generational trip to Cornwall and has compiled its recommendations for Twixmas activities along a cycling theme. Imagine: Cornish countryside, traffic-free cycle trails, fresh sea air… These five cycle routes in Cornwall will do wonders for shifting any sign of a festive spare tyre too…
The Mineral Tramways’ Mining Trails
This network of seven multi-use trails covers 60km around the Camborne and Redruth area. Most of the paths follow the the disused tramways and rail routes, representing a fascinating bygone nod to Cornwall’s rich mining heritage. Relax on gentle traffic-free routes, take in historic mining architecture on more challenging rides or burn off the Christmas pudding on the steep slope climbs, there is a trail for all abilities.
The Goss Moor Trail
A trail for the nature enthusiasts among us, The Goss Moor trail is a 12km circular route across the Goss Moor Nature Reserve. Listed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the nature reserve is home to a diverse and rare range of flora and fauna as well as a fascinating selection of waterways, marshes and mysteriously still pools. Keep your eyes peeled and binoculars at the ready, the area is one of the main breeding sites in the UK for the rare Marsh Fritillary Butterfly.
The Camel Trail
Running alongside the River Camel, this trail follows the disused railway line route between Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow. 18 miles long and virtually traffic-free, the route provides access to some of the most beautiful areas of the Cornish countryside, including picturesque woodland of the Upper Camel Valley.
The trail is also a paradise for birdwatchers, who can spot kingfisher, marsh orchid and marsh marigold as well as otters, bats and dormice. Don’t forget the kids for this one, the trail is ideal for trying out that new bicycle Santa delivered.
The Clay Trails
This network of short multi-use trails cuts through mid-Cornwall’s historic china clay country, meandering through woodland, heathland, coastal and country lanes. After opening in 2005, the trails have been part of a restoration project that focuses on habitat management, creating an area that is now rich in wildlife. A series of sculptures along the way that celebrate the former mining history and local community are a great way to keep kids’ eyes peeled, too.
Bodmin Beast at Cardinham Woods
For the more experienced cyclist who loves a hit of adrenaline, this 12km blue grade cycle trail ticks all the boxes and really will help to burn off those turkey trimmings. Nicknamed ‘The Bodmin Beast’ the route meanders through the woodland valley, offering technical climbs, tight bermed corners and small step downs. Proficient mountain bikers can also take on the two red grade trails that loop off the main trail, while the Woods Cafe is the perfect place to refuel the batteries after an action-packed day.
