The Devon Coast to Coast

The official route map for the 99-mile (158km) Devon Coast to Coast cycle route between Ilfracombe and Plymouth.The Devon Coast to Coast is revered as one of the finest long distance routes of the National Cycle Network. Running from Ilfracombe to Plymouth the route combines the beaches and superb estuaries of North Devon, the verdant valleys of the Torridge, the Tavy and Walkham rivers, and spectacular vistas of Dartmoor and the lower lying lands of Cornwall from its western flanks. Three fantastic traffic-free converted railway paths form much of the Devon Coast to Coast. The famous Tarka Trail begins at Braunton alongside the River Taw before crossing the tributary River Yeo at Barnstaple. It then follows the Torridge Estuary on to Bideford and eventually Meeth. The Coast to Coast branches off before Meeth on-road to Petrockstowe. The Granite Way follows the former Southern Region railway line from Okehampton at the north western edge of Dartmoor to Lydford. The route takes riders over the lofty Meldon Viaduct and offers spectacular views of the dramatic rugged Dartmoor landscape before reaching Lake Viaduct.
The final stretch to Lydford follows undulating quiet lanes before rejoining the railway path where superb views of Fernworthy Down can be enjoyed. The Drake's Trail is the final stretch of the Devon Coast to Coast route and is almost entirely traffic-free from Tavistock to Plymouth. A highlight of this route is Gem Bridge, the longest bridge on the National Cycle Network, which guides riders over the dramatic Walkham Valley between Tavistock and Horrabridge. The route finishes on a tranquil railway path, held aloft in places by breathtaking viaducts, which winds down to Plymouth. The Devon Coast to Coast route has been developed by Devon County Council and Plymouth City Council with Sustrans and the support of other local authorities and major landowners.