Tamar Valley Discovery Trail
Distance: 30 miles | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Type: Mixed
Follow the beautiful Tamar Valley through historic mining landscapes and riverside trails.
Highlights
- River Tamar views
- Mining heritage sites
- Woodland trails
- Gentle gradients
- Wildlife spotting
Route Details
Starting Point: Launceston Terrain: Mostly flat with gentle hills Best Time: Year-round Estimated Time: 3-4 hours Surface: Mixed road and trail
Description
This scenic route follows the Tamar Valley, combining quiet lanes with sections of off-road trail. The Tamar Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with rich mining heritage. The route is suitable for hybrid or mountain bikes due to mixed terrain.
Points of Interest
- River Tamar - Natural border between Cornwall and Devon
- Mining Heritage - Historic copper and silver mines
- Kit Hill - Dramatic viewpoint (optional detour)
- Woodland Sections - Beautiful tree-lined trails
- Wildlife - Otters, kingfishers, buzzards
Route Tips
- Bike Type: Hybrid or mountain bike recommended
- Traffic: Mostly quiet with some busier sections
- Services: Villages along route for refreshments
- Terrain: Mix of tarmac and gravel/trail sections
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children with cycling experience
What to Bring
- Water and snacks
- Basic repair kit
- Appropriate bike for mixed terrain
- Camera for scenic spots
- Binoculars for wildlife watching
Stops Along the Way
- Launceston - Start point with cafés
- Gunnislake - Village with pub and shop
- Calstock - Riverside village worth exploring
Perfect for those wanting a scenic ride without too much challenge, combining countryside, heritage, and nature.