Cornwall, with its breathtaking scenery, is a cyclist’s paradise. From the rugged coastline to the rolling countryside, the varied scenery makes it an ideal destination for both leisurely rides and challenging trails. You can find some of the best cycling trails in Cornwall right in Fowey. It’s an ideal base for cyclists looking to discover the county’s natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a new adventure or a family seeking a fun day out, Fowey and its surroundings have bike trails for any skill level. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best cycling routes in Cornwall that are accessible from Fowey, ranging from leisurely rides to more challenging trails.
Cycling Trails in Fowey
Cycling in Fowey is a wonderful way to explore the scenic beauty of Cornwall. A wonderful jumping off spot for cycling routes along the coast or through wooded trails, Fowey offers a variety of routes for cyclists of all abilities. For those without their own bikes, bike hire in Fowey is readily available, ensuring you can easily access the best of what the area has to offer. After a day of cycling, relax in one of Fowey’s charming cafes, soaking in the town’s laid-back atmosphere. You can also head back to the Old Quay House, to enjoy a drink or a meal on the gorgeous terrace, overlooking the estuary.
Best Bike Trails in Cornwall
Selecting the ideal bike trail in Cornwall involves considering your interests and skill level. For serene coastal views, choose routes that hug the shoreline. If history intrigues you, look for trails through heritage-rich landscapes. For a mix of challenges and scenic beauty, opt for varied terrains. Cornwall’s diverse trails cater to all preferences. Having trouble deciding? Here are some suggestions to help you choose.
- Best for Adrenaline Junkies: The Bodmin Beast Cycle Trail
For those who crave thrills, the Bodmin Beast Cycle Trail offers an exhilarating ride. This 12-kilometre single track trail, located in the dense woods of the Cardinham Valley on Bodmin Moor, is designed for experienced riders. The trail features technical ascents, steep descents, and a series of winding tracks and tight banked corners that will challenge even the most skilled cyclists. With steps, rollers, and tabletops, this trail is not for the faint-hearted. For those looking to push their limits further, there are two additional sections of demanding red trail that loop off the main Bodmin Beast trail.
- Best for Exploring Cornwall’s Mining Heritage: The Clay Trails
The Clay Trails, a network of routes winding through mid-Cornwall’s China clay country, offer a unique glimpse into the county’s industrial past. These trails are relatively quiet and less frequented, allowing you to explore Cornwall’s 300-year-old mining heritage at your own pace. The surreal landscape, shaped by working mines, clay pits, turquoise dams, and miniature mountains of spoil heaps, is unlike any other in the region. The routes vary in difficulty, from easy off-road circulars to steep climbs. Keep in mind that parts of the trail are remote, so come prepared with supplies.
- Best for Making Frequent Stops: The Coast to Coast Route
If you enjoy a more leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments, the Coast to Coast Route is ideal. This 11-mile, largely traffic-free route connects the village of Devoran on the south coast to Portreath Beach on the north coast. The path follows an old railway line that once served the copper mines around Redruth, offering flat and mostly off-road cycling through beautiful countryside. Start your day at the St Piran Café in Devoran, where you can fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off. Along the route, you’ll find several cosy cafes and traditional pubs, including the Fox and Hounds in Scorrier. At the end of your ride, treat yourself to a swim in the sea at Portreath, followed by a snack from the famous Portreath Bakery.
- Best for Coastal Views: The West Kernow Way
For cyclists seeking breathtaking ocean views, the West Kernow Way is a must. This recently opened 150-mile route around the western tip of Cornwall offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The figure-of-eight route takes you through a series of coves, clifftops, and fishing villages, following ancient tracks and quiet backroads. Highlights include Land’s End, Sennen Cove, Cape Cornwall, the Mên-an-Tol standing stones, Lizard Point, the Helford River, and Saint Michael’s Mount. While completing the entire route in one trip may be ambitious, the beauty of the West Kernow Way is that it’s easy to break into smaller sections for a day or half-day ride.
- Best for Varied Terrain: The Camel Trail
The Camel Trail is one of Cornwall’s most popular cycling routes, and for good reason. This 18-mile trail follows the Camel Estuary from Padstow to Wadebridge, passing through the picturesque Camel Valley. The route is perfect for families and casual cyclists, with its gentle terrain and stunning views. Beyond Bodmin, the trail skirts the edges of Bodmin Moor before finishing in the quaint village of Blisland. Once in Blisland, you can rest and refuel, perhaps visiting the historic Blisland Inn, known for its cosy atmosphere and excellent local ales.
- Best for Cyclists of all Levels: The Lanhydrock Bike Trail
The Lanhydrock Estate, located just a short drive from Fowey, offers a variety of cycling trails suitable for all abilities. The estate’s colour-coded trails range from easy, family-friendly paths that wind through peaceful woodlands to more challenging routes for experienced riders. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, the dual slalom racetrack offers jumps and drops that will get your heart racing. The trails are free to use, though there is a charge for parking.
- Best for Families with Little Ones: The Pentewan Cycle Trail
If you’re cycling with young children, the Pentewan Cycle Trail is a great option. Once upon a time, an old railway line that once transported China clay from the hills above St Austell to the harbour at Pentewan, and today, the 3.5 mile Pentewan Trail follows that line. The trail is mostly traffic-free, making it a safe and enjoyable ride for families. The route meanders through woodlands and along the riverbank, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. For an added adventure, take a detour to the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan or continue on to Mevagissey, a charming fishing village a few miles north. If you didn’t bring your own bikes, you can hire them in Mevagissey and ride the trail in reverse.
An Iconic UK Journey
One of the ultimate road bike holidays in the UK is the route that runs between Lands’ End and John O’Groats. Colloquially known as the LEJOG, this challenging ride takes you through some of the best scenery in the UK, including Cornish coastline, the stark beauty of Dartmoor, charming English villages, wooded river valleys, and lakes, lochs, and mountains. It is definitely a bucket list activity, running from the tip of Cornwall to the top of Scotland, 1,000 miles across the UK, but it is certainly within reach if you want to achieve it.
People travel this route at their own pace, with the longest trips generally lasting 21 days. This gives riders plenty of time to really explore the country. Most commonly, though, people choose to do it in 14 days. While you can travel this route on your own, most people find that it is better to go with a group, particularly as there is no set route, and planning your own route can be tricky. You can take it from Land’s End to John O’Groats, or choose the “JOGLE” from John O’Groats to Land’s End, but whichever direction you choose to go, The Old Quay House is a good spot to stop, spend the night, and enjoy a lovely meal.
Cycle All Day, Spend the Night in Comfort
No matter where you choose to cycle on your Fowey holiday, The Old Quay House Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Nestled in the heart of Fowey, in a beautifully picturesque location at 28 Fore Street, this riverside boutique hotel offers a modern-day bolthole away from life’s stresses and chores. Check with us for special offers, and we will do everything in our power to make your stay even more special. In our Victorian building, you will find friendly staff ready to make your stay comfortable and memorable, and while we cannot accommodate children under the age of 8, in most cases we welcome well-behaved, friendly dogs. Call ahead to make sure that your canine companion is allowed with your particular package. For more information email [email protected], or contact us through our website.
