This tour has all the delights of Devon with idyllic flat, traffic free pedalling. Smell the sea air, taste the cream teas, see the green hills, touch the gentle way of life and almost hear the sound of trains as you ride along the disused railway tracks. Both days on this 2 night break allow as little or as much cycling as you fancy - perfect for any age and any ability.
Holiday details
Price
- Classic
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from £595 per person
- Luxury
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from £885 per person
Based on two people sharing a room
What’s included?
There are no extras, however you’ll love what’s included as standard
Duration
2 nights
Start & Finish
Starts daily with Barnstaple as the base. By train, Barnstaple is 4 hours from London Paddington
Hotels
- Classic
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A small hotel in Barnstaple
- Luxury
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4 star hotel in Barnstaple
Holiday type
Self-guided
This tour is priced without a guide and you are free to explore on your own. If you would like a guide for part or all of your trip, we are happy to provide a knowledgeable, local guide
Activity level
Gentle cycling (1) More info...
Electric bikes
Available
Mileage
2 days of cycling up to 20 and 50 miles (32 - 80km) per day
Terrain
More or less flat
Traffic-free
97%
Options
- Additional nights in Barnstaple
- Plenty to explore in Barnstaple for a non-cycling partner
Itinerary day-by-day
Classic & Luxury
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1. Day one
Arrive Barnstaple
Arrive in Barnstaple and make your way to your hand picked accommodation which is located adjacent to the heart of this attractive town. Situated at the head of the Taw estuary, the town has a long and interesting history with plenty to explore. At a time to suit you make your way to our base close by in Barnstaple, which is open from 9.15 to 17.00 every day, to pick up your cycling equipment. Your host will meet you there, organise your bicycle and run through your itinerary.
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2. Day two
Barnstaple to a North Devon Hamlet and Back
Today's ride follows the course of an old railway line as it hugs the estuary to Bideford and then follows the River Torridge through scenic woodlands, over bridges and through cuttings and tunnels. Virtually traffic free, with just a gentle incline at the far end of the route, the day includes marshlands, old quays, a beach great for a dip and cosy cafes in former railway stations. It's worth a detour across the 14th Century bridge to explore Bideford or a foray on a ferry to the quaint whist fishing village of Appledore. It's a day packed with variety and you can turn around and retrace your way back to Barnstaple for a second night there whenever you feel like it.
Up to 52 miles (84 km)
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3. Day three
Barnstaple to Saunton Sands and Back
There's a wonderful opportunity to absorb the holiday mood today on this idyllic ride around the Taw estuary. Traffic free, flat and with the wind in your hair, you can ride by the sand dunes and spot the wildlife. Freewheel on to the beautiful sandy bay at Saunton, test the sea's temperature and laze away the hours. As the return ride retraces the route, you can head back home at any point. Return your bike to our base and depart, dreams fulfilled!
Up to 25 miles (40 km)