Not only is the UK blessed with some of the finest scenery in the world, but we are also lucky enough to have one of the most extensive cycling networks to discover it by. Whether you have been cycling for decades or recently discovered the beauty of two wheels in lockdown, this summer is set to be the perfect time for an off-road adventure. We have rounded up four of the best routes in the UK to get you as far away from the hustle and bustle as possible.
Cycling in the UK
Dartmoor National Park - Devon
Image by piersoneill
The South West of England rivals any oversees holiday destination during the summer months. With temperatures often the hottest in the UK, you will be thankful for the refreshing rush of air blowing over legendary Dartmoor. A popular route is the loop that takes you from Princetown to Burrator reservoir via some of the best vantage points overlooking the wild moorland. On clear days you can see as far as Plymouth! Be sure to look out for the view of atmospheric Fox Tor Myre - the famous inspiration for ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles'.
The Highlands – Scotland
Photo by Miquel Rosselló Calafell
This is the most extreme suggestion on the list but probably the most rewarding. It is recommended that you take three days to cycle the epic 79 miles from Fort William in the west to Inverness in the east. It’s tough going but when you’re gazing out over Loch Oich and gliding through the forests above Loch Ness, it will all seem worth it. You can find a complete itinerary over at Ticket To Ride Highlands.
Dalby Forest
Photo by Pixabay
Nestled on the edge of the North Yorkshire moors, Dalby Forest is not called the Great Yorkshire Forest for nothing. This woodland paradise has 55 miles worth of off-road trails for you to explore and is home to both roe deer and badgers. There are a variety of trails on offer designed to suit everyone from family riders to mountain biking pros. Find out more about the trails here.
The Lake District
Image by James Stevens
The Lake District is stunning any time of the year but it’s especially beautiful in summer when the sun glistens on the breath-taking waters. How good does dipping your weary feet in one of the lakes at the end of a day cycling sound? And then in the evening dip your body in hot water, at one of the hot tub lodges in the Lake District.
One of the more unique routes on offer is the Eskdale T-Rail – so named because you board a specially converted train to reach the starting point. From there, you follow the 14km signposted route through the diverse Eskdale valley all the way down to Ravenglass’ coast. Be prepared though; it is not advised to take children as the terrain is uneven and accidents can happen. Experienced cyclists, however, should have no issues.
But if you do happen to be involved in an accident on this route or any of the others mentioned, support is available. The bike accident claims team at Osbornes Law is on hand to help you if the unfortunate should happen.
Cycling in the Alps
Today, the hardest and heroic cycling event includes the Tour de France which often resides in the French Alps. There are many towns and villages in the Alps which make great destinations to go for a cycling holiday with friends; where you can challenge yourself and other to climb the steep mountains on road bikes (even with 10 speed bicycles) & mountain bikes. Below are 2 destinations that you should certainly check out.
Tirol
Image by Gloedis Schober
Tirol has the longest bike trial in the whole of the Alps which loops around the small town. It stretches a whopping 1,000 Kilometres and reaches a height of 27,000 meters which will make exercising much harder as your body will be trying hard to get the extra oxygen you require.
You can begin the trail at any point and can make this a day trip or even a 2-week intense experience. It is a great place to go if you are a cycling enthusiast.
Alpe d’Huez
Photo by Aurèle Mayol
Perhaps one of the most legendary places to go cycling in the French alps is Alpe d’Huez. Once made famous due to a climb during the Tour de France, this biker’s destination is not just stunning but physically challenging. When many professional cyclists have attempted this destination during competition and completed it, they have felt like that is the end of their career as there is nothing left to complete.
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