The Joy Ride

Unforgettable Cycling on the Plym Valley Trail

There's a special kind of magic that happens when you swap the car keys for a helmet and the roar of traffic for the gentle hum of bicycle tyres on a smooth path. And if you're looking for that perfect escape in Devon, look no further than the Plym Valley Trail – a cycling dream woven through woodland, history, and stunning natural beauty.

For years, I've found myself drawn back to this verdant corridor, and every ride brings new delights. So, why is cycling the Plym Valley Trail such a joy? Let me count the ways!

Green getaway for all

One of the trail's biggest draws is its accessibility. Largely flat and traffic-free, it's perfect for families with little ones just finding their balance, leisurely riders wanting a gentle pedal, or even seasoned cyclists looking for a scenic spin. The well-maintained surface means you can focus on the views, not dodging potholes. There is even free parking and quality, well priced bike hire at Coypool P&R.

Nature's Embrace

From the moment you set off, you're enveloped in a lush green canopy. Sunlight dapples through the leaves, the River Plym gurgles contentedly alongside sections of the path, and the air is fresh with the scent of woodland. Keep your eyes peeled! You might spot deer darting through the trees, hear the tap-tap-tap of a woodpecker, or see buzzards or even peregrines soaring overhead. It’s a true immersion in nature, just a stone's throw from Plymouth.

Pedal Through History

The Plym Valley Trail isn't just a pretty path; it's a journey back in time. Following the route of a former Great Western Railway line, you'll pedal over magnificent Victorian viaducts – most notably the iconic Cann Viaduct, offering breath taking views across the valley.

Viaduct stop

Imagine the steam trains that once chugged along this very route! You'll also pass remnants of the area's industrial past, with old quarry workings and leats hinting at a bygone era.

Views That Take Your Breath Away (But Not Your Energy!)While the trail itself is gentle and perfect for family cycling, the vistas it offers are anything but. The aforementioned Cann Viaduct is a highlight, but there are countless other spots where the trees open up to reveal stunning panoramas of the Plymbridge Woods, the river, and the rolling Devon countryside. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you stop, breathe deep, and just appreciate the beauty around you.

Perfect Pit Stops

When you start out from Coypool P&R, you can enjoy a coffee or snack there or simply top up with water. There are opportunities to pause and refresh at Clearbrook and Yelverton. Benches are dotted along the way for a quick water break or come off the trail and enjoy a picnic stop.

More than Just a Ride

Cycling the Plym Valley Trail is an experience. It's the joy of shared laughter with family, the peace of a solo ride with only birdsong for company, the thrill of exploring, and the simple pleasure of moving through beautiful surroundings under your own steam.

So, pump up your tyres, pack a snack, and prepare for an adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a wobbly beginner, the Plym Valley Trail promises a day of joyful discovery.

Have you cycled the Plym Valley Trail? Share your favourite spots and memories in the comments below!