Cycling in North Devon

The most popular cycle path in North Devon is the Tarka Trail, named after the famous story of Tarka the Otter by Henry Williamson.

The story details the life and trials of an Otter born on the banks of the river Torridge. Stretching along 180 miles through North and Mid Devon, the Tarka trail takes you through the Estuaries of the Two Rivers of Tarka - the River Taw and the River Torridge.

This wonderfully maintained path is open to walkers and cyclists, but is particularly popular with cyclists as the path is an old railway, flat and very easily cycled for young and old peddlers.

Route Idea for families and novices: Braunton to Barnstaple

This part of the Tarka Trail is an ideal introduction to cycling for families and novices. The popular Tarka Trail is a gentle off-road route along the beautiful banks of the estuary. It's traffic free and well maintained just take care when approaching pedestrians and other cyclists.

If you don't have your own bikes you can hire them in Braunton, at Otter Cycle Hire. If you're feeling energetic you don't have to stop at Barnstaple, this is just a small part of this trail and coast to coast path. You can carry from Barnstaple to Instow, Bideford, Torrington and on to Petrockstowe.

Walking in Woolacombe

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parcs welcome walkers!

With the variety of different walks to go on, from short coastal footpaths to the beach, to circular walks that incorporate all the glorious countryside and coastline that rugged North Devon has to offer, you will be hard pressed to explore all the trails and jaunts that we have to offer.

Start from Twitchen Park and walk through woodland down to the beach!

You can take advantage of the flora and fauna all year round, the wild flowers and gorse are normally at their best in the spring time, when the paths are clear and the wildlife is just waking up for the summer.

Places of interest

• Exmoor National Park
• Lundy Island
• Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Heritage Coast and Marine Nature Reserve