Cycle trails in Cornwall are plentiful, thanks to our endless rolling hills, coastal paths, quaint villages and open spaces. Here at Old Lanwarnick we know how lucky we are to have this on our doorstep, so we’d like to share some of our favourites with our loyal customers. Being a family run business we know how important it is to get out there and enjoy nature, even more so with an activity that is fun for the whole family. Cycle trails in Cornwall are a great way to see the local area, and to get some exercise at the same time! See below for a selection of trails not far from Old Lanwarnick, and the many that you could tick off when staying with us.
1. Cardinham Woods
Located on the outskirts of Bodmin, Cardinham Woods is draped in a series of specially built cycle trails. The trails include a number of family friendly routes. The impressive 12-kilometre ‘Bodmin Beast’ is a single track trail with adrenaline filled climbs and descents, great for those looking for a little challenge. Cardinham Woods offers cycle hire, and also features an award-winning café serving delicious homemade food using locally sourced ingredients.
2. The Camel Trail
Cycle trails in Cornwall don’t get more famous than this one. Running between the historic town of Bodmin and the fishing port of Padstow, this 18-mile trail follows a disused railway line through the Cornish countryside and along the stunning Camel Estuary. There are plenty of pubs, shops and restaurants to visit along the way, giving you lots of reasons to stop and take a wander. Cycle hire is available from Padstow, Wadebridge and Bodmin, and this relatively flat, surfaced trail is perfect for enjoying some of the most spectacular countryside in the south west.
3. Wheal Martyn to The Eden Project
This route is one of five ‘Clay Trails’ that surround the St Austell area. Setting off from the Wheal Martyn museum, this mostly wide gravel path trail enjoys views of south Cornwall’s China Clay country, winding its way around former clay pits. The trail finishes at the stunning Eden Project with its colourful gardens and towering biomes, and the chance to enjoy some freshly prepared local food. One of the most picturesque cycle trains in Cornwall.
4. Lanhydrock, near Bodmin
The ancient woodlands of the National Trust’s Lanhydrock Estate are very popular with mountain bikers. However, the paths around the estate also make for a gentle cycle, walk or scoot with the kids. Fancy something a little more adventurous? Not only are there red and blue graded trails, there is also a skills area and a balance bike track, where you can practice your skills over rollers and jumps, banked corners and drops.
5. Old Hill Bike Park, Wadebridge
Not so much a trail as a maze of wheeled obstacle courses! You’ll need to have all the kit in advance (helmets with face protection are mandatory, body armour recommended). Book in for a half or full day’s riding and try out jumps, ramps and drops along miles of graded tracks. This is off-road biking heaven! Top tip – walk the black route first before trying it out.
6. The Clay Trails, St Austell
Known as Cornwall’s Alps, The Clay Trails wind their way through the unique landscape of Cornwall’s china clay mining area. Here you get an insight into both the past and present of an industry which has shaped the area since the Industrial Revolution. The cycle trails also form part of the National Cycle Network with a route for everyone, from littlies to serious cyclists who want to beat their Strava sections on the hill climbs.
7. Pentewan Valley Trail, St Austell
This traffic-free section of the Cornish Way starts a mile from St Austell station, and ends in the bustling fishing village of Mevagissey. The route includes a link to the famous Lost Gardens of Heligan. To make this link, turn right after three miles, over the wooden bridge, and follow an old carriage drive uphill to the lovingly restored gardens. After a steep downhill stretch, you will arrive in the bustling fishing village of Mevagissey. With a long tradition of fishing and smuggling, this little village has a rich history to dive into when you arrive, not to mention a great selection of cafes and restaurants to refuel.
8. Marazion to Mousehole, Penzance
If you happen to find yourself on the south coast of Cornwall, then this cycle route will take you from the village of Marazion, past the world famous St Michael’s Mount, along the coast path towards Penzance and finally, Mousehole. Explore this route and all that Penzance has to offer, on this relatively flat, and paved, cycle route. It’s great for the whole family, and even if you didn’t bring your wheels with you, you can pick up some E-Bikes along the promenade in Penzance for a shorter ride to the fishing village of Mousehole. Here you will be met with quaint pubs and cafes to refuel before your return journey.
9. The Bissoe Trail, Portreath to Devoran
One of the more popular cycle routes in Cornwall, this short-but-sweet trail takes you from Bissoe to Portreath. Starting in Bissoe, you can hire bikes from Saint Piran’s cafe, where they will give you all the information you need for your adventures. Once you get to Portreath, treat yourself with a dip in the ocean, a pasty from the hut on the beach, or a delicious meal from The Portreath Arms.
10. The West Kernow Way
This is the bike trail of all bike trails, and we couldn’t help but share it with you. This impressive 230-kilometre bike trail is for those who are looking for an epic adventure around our county, and is not for the faint of heart. Whilst it may not be an easy going day trip for the whole family, there is something to be said for embarking on a challenge of this magnitude. With more than 4,200 metres of climbing, all this exertion proves worthwhile as you get back to nature, and see Cornwall like never before
Here at Old Lanwarnick, we provide the perfect base for your Cornish cycling adventures thanks to our secure bike storage sheds, not to mention our outdoor taps to wash down your bikes which can be found in all cottages. You can even use our heated dog wash station to keep your humble steed looking sparkling clean! Old Lanwarnick is a haven to return to after a challenging day on the trails, so if you’re contemplating booking your next trip on two wheels, be sure to get in touch and book your stay with us.
