To get you started, we’ve put together a list of our favourite bike rides in Cornwall, calling to all generations of pedal-pumpers and free-wheelers: 

The Camel Trail

The Camel Trail is possibly Cornwall’s most famous bike trail. Stretching from the working harbour town of Padstow to Bodmin’s Wenfordbridge, it follows 18 miles of former-railway line through sprawling Cornish countryside and along the coast. A mostly tarmacked route, it enables you to enjoy the blissful ease of virtually level surfaces the whole way – excellent for gently working up an appetite before a pitstop at one of the many wonderful pubs and restaurants en route. 

Cardinham Woods

The huge tangle of cycle routes around North Cornwall’s Cardinham Woods are an attractive proposition for cyclists of all ages. Including both family-friendly trails and red-graded runs for the more experienced bikers, its waymarked trails offer something for every ability. A particular favourite amongst seasoned mountain bikers is the 7.5-mile Bodmin Beast, an off-road, blue-graded track scaling the valley and descending along gnarly wooded slopes.

Goss Moor Cycle Trail

A great one for a relaxed ride through tranquil countryside, the Goss Moor Cycle Trail affords 7 miles of predominantly flat surfaces and easy gradients. Set within a 480-hectare National Nature Reserve owned and managed by Natural England, it is a popular spot for walkers and joggers too. Comprised of a main circular multi-use loop, this trail also links up with other smaller courses, including routes linking with Tregoss Moor.

The Great Flat Lode

The Great Flat Lode comprises a fairly challenging 7.5-mile circuit around Carn Brea Hill, near Redruth. A former miner’s trail, it actually retraces the old Bassett Mine tramway that was once used to transport tin ore from nearby valley mines to Wheal Bassett Stamps. Raising heart rates along some of the route’s steeper sections, the pay-off comes in0 the form of the panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, including those of South Crofty, Cornwall’s last tin mine.

Pentewan Valley Trail

Following an old railway line running between the village of Pentewan and the historic town of St Austell, the Pentewan Valley Trail is a brilliant little route for a leisurely spin. At only 3 miles long, it can be travelled quickly; however, we suspect you’ll want to take your time! Weaving through picturesque woodland, this trail also follows a stretch of sandy beach and passes a number of eateries luring tired legs and hungry bellies in with the promise of hot food and cold drinks.

Tamar Trails

Straddling the border of Devon and Cornwall, the Tamar Valley AONB possesses some of the most gorgeous scenery in the South West. A fascinating area to discover by bike, you can pick up part of the 15 miles of multigrade trails that have been created in the valley as part of the Mining Heritage Project. Featuring bike rides along old mineral tramways and railways, the trails give a unique insight into the area’s mining history – not to mention stunning natural landscapes too.