Cycling Holidays in Devon

Forest Glade is situated in a truly unique location, surrounded by 300 acres of Pine Forest. Before you even begin to explore further afield, you’ll discover a range of brilliant cycling routes in the Blackdown Hills – with varying landscapes and terrain for cyclists of all levels.

Our Devon holiday park is situated in an idyllic position with convenient access to picturesque Devonshire countryside. Exmoor, Dartmoor, Exeter, Honiton, Taunton, Barnstaple and Minehead are all close by.

Below you’ll find five of our favourite cycling routes in Devon – some of which are family friendly, flat routes that are ideal for younger cyclists.

Top 5 Cycling Routes in Devon

1. Exe Estuary Trail Loop from Exeter to Exmouth

Along this route you’ll enjoy stunning views of the River Exe, The Exeter Ship Canal and Goosemoor Nature Reserve. It’s a great route for all fitness levels and features mostly paved ground. Why not treat yourself to a well deserve drink and bite to eat at Double Locks – a friendly pub on the banks of the Exeter Ship Canal.

18.2 miles, 225ft incline. Easy route.
View route

2. Ilfracombe loop from Barnstaple & the Tarka Trail

The longest route on our list features some tricky terrain and steep climbs – making it one of the best bike trails in Devon for expert riders. This one is certain to put your fitness to the test, but your efforts will be well rewards with views of the River Taw, Combesgate Beach and Ilfracombe Quay.

30.7 miles, 2,300ft incline. Expert route.
View route

3. Tavistock & Burrator Reservoir loop from Yelverton – Dartmoor National Park

At just over 18-miles around, this trail features a steady climb – making it an intermediate route. However the terrain is mostly paved – making it ideal for riders of good fitness levels and all skill levels. The incredible forest scenery passing across the Gem Bridge over the River Walkham is sure to be a real highlight!

18.4 miles, 1,425ft incline. Intermediate route.
View route

4. The Exe Estuary loop from Exeter to Dawlish

This is a slightly longer and alternative version of the first route on our list! The length and incline makes this an intermediate route which is best suited for riders with good fitness levels. Your extra efforts on this extended route will reward you with fantastic sea views!

26.1 miles, 875ft incline. Intermediate route – mostly flat.
View route

5. Hemlock & Culmstock loop from Uffculme

The Hemlock & Culmstock loop is a fantastic way to really take in the beauty of the Blackdown Hills AONB. Your journey will start at Coldharbour Mill – a working museum and one of the oldest mills in the UK! We highly recommend popping in for a look around and to enjoy a drink and bite to eat in their café!

18.4 miles, 1,425t incline. Intermediate route – mostly paved.
View route

There is a wide range of brilliant places to hire mountain bikes and e-bikes in Devon. After 40 years of exploring the Devonshire countryside, we’ve gained a great knowledge of the best cycle hire providers in the area and can attest to the high quality of the cycling routes nearby.

Many guests book a stay at Forest Glade as part of their cycling holidays in Devon. We’re more than happy to provide our recommendations of places to visit and hire equipment!

Route 2 Bikes

Route 2 Bikes are a trusted supplier in Topsham, near Exeter. They offer bike hire, sell new and used models, service and repair cycles and have a well-stocked shop full of bike components, accessories and gifts.

Visit the Route 2 Bikes for more information

Visit Route 2 Bikes

Abbotshood Cycle Hire

Just 18-minutes up the road, Abbotshood Cycle Hire at The Globe Inn, Lowertown is a fantastic place to book out cycling gear. They have direct access to the Grand Western Canal, which makes for an easy, flat afternoon cycle. The family friendly cycling route is 11-miles long and offers many beautiful views and opportunities for nature spotting along the way.

Visit the Abbotshood Cycle Hire website for more information

Visit Abbotshood Cycle Hire

We have a range of accommodation at Forest Glade. Whether you’d like a classic holiday caravan, cosy camping pod or to pitch up your tent or tourer in our five-acre field – we’ve got you covered.

Holiday Caravans

We have five types of holiday caravans which are available for short breaks at Forest Glade. Each are fully equipped to provide you with a relaxing and comfortable stay. After a long day exploring the Devonshire countryside on your bike, you’ll love coming back to your cosy holiday caravan. As a pet friendly holiday park, we are also pleased to offer accommodation that can host your well-behaved dog!

Camping Pods

Our camping pods are perfect for those that want to avoid the hassle of pitching up a tent – whilst still getting the outdoor experience. While you’ll still feel closer to nature in a camping pod, you can also enjoy some of the creature comforts of home, such as double mattresses, appliances and tables.

Five Acre Field

Set on the edge of the Forest Glade Park, our five acre field is a beautiful and serene place to go camping in Devon. Here, you really feel away from civilisation – which makes for a peaceful stay. Campers often enjoy stargazing in our five acre field.

Food and Drink

We have a range of food on-site, including options at our on-site shop, food vans and trucks. Treat yourself to a post cycle takeaway to replenish your energy levels and reward your hard work!

WC and Shower

Unwind after a day out cycling around Devon with a free hot shower at Forest Glade. We take great pride in the cleanliness and quality of our toilet and shower block. We also offer a laundry room and dishwashing sinks.

Swimming Pool and Sauna

What better way to relax your muscles after a busy day on the pedals than with a dip in our indoor swimming pool and session in our sauna? Both are available for our guests to use with no extra charge.

Entertainment and Activity Facilities

When you’re not out discovering cycling trails in Devon, why not make use of our tennis court, pool tables, badminton lawn or games room.

We’re proud to be a family friendly holiday park, and to have a range of children’s facilities on-site such indoor and outdoor play areas, indoor games room and soft play. If you’d like recommendations of more places to explore in the local area, places to visit or eat – simply pay our friendly team a visit in our reception or shop!

Whether you’re looking to book a family holiday, a couples getaway, or a solo cycling adventure, look no further than Forest Glade.

Book your Devon Cycling Holiday now