The Exmoor Cycle Route
Added: 7 August 2008
Exmoor's own permanent Tour of Britain!
As part of the Tour of Britain 2008 media ride, Active Exmoor, Exmoor National Park and Somerset County Council has launched The Exmoor Cycle Route.
The 60 mile circular route encompasses the best that Exmoor has to offer, crossing the border into Devon and back into Somerset.
The route can be done in one day for the more experienced rider or can be divided up into sections for the touring rider or family who want to experience more of what Exmoor has to offer, visiting sites of interest and staying in one of the many Bed and Breakfasts on route.
John Dyke Chairman of the Exmoor National Park Authority said "The Tour of Britain which passed through Exmoor last year drew no less than 30,000 spectators. Amongst other things, this demonstrated what fantastic opportunities there are for cycling on Exmoor and taking in our wonderful countryside at close quarters. I am sure that the new route will encourage more and more cyclists to experience at first hand the challenges and keep-fit opportunities which exist here"
Rachel Hayes Active Exmoor who is project managing the route said "The spin of effects from the Tour of Britain in 2007 can still be seen throughout Exmoor, the area is becoming renowned amongst the cycling fraternity for its excellent cycling terrain and quiet roads".
The Exmoor Cycle Route can be accessed from many places on the 60 mile route, however Minehead is the recommended start and finish location as it offers the best public transport links with the West Somerset Railway and a regular bus service from Taunton.
There are also plans a foot for Active Exmoor to develop facilities for cyclists along the route working with local businesses and service providers.
Mike Bishop Active Exmoor said "It is an exciting time to be on Exmoor, there is so much happening in the sports tourism sector, so be sure to watch out for those cyclists".
The route heads from Minehead towards Porlock and then onto Lynmouth, up through Watersmeet and on to Brendon Common. The riders will then drop into the village of Simonsbath, Exford and Wheddon Cross, before climbing up to Raleigh's Cross for the long descent down Elworthy Burrows, the route will the take a path back to Minehead through Washford and along the A39. Full details of the route and a downloadable map to your GPS can be found online at www.activeexmoor.com.
The Route should provide an excellent boost for Tourism. If any accommodation providers along the route are looking for help to develop their facilities for the sports tourist then please do not hesitate Active Exmoor on 01398324599 or visit www.activeexmoor.com.
The Exmoor Cycle Route is funded by the Exmoor Sustainable Development Fund, Somerset County Council and Active Exmoor.
Ridden the route? Add your comments below.
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