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Imagine pedaling through peaceful countryside, greeted by the charm of old stone walls, blooming meadows, and centuries-old log mansions transformed into cozy retreats. These cycling routes pair scenic landscapes with the character of farmhouse-turned-B&Bs, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, these routes invite you to slow down, soak in the views, and rest your head in places steeped in history and hospitality. Here are nine unforgettable routes across the world to inspire your next two-wheeled escape.
1. The Camel Trail, Cornwall, England
This 17-mile trail winds along a former railway beside the River Camel, leading you past vintage bridges, wildlife, and lush woodland. At the end, settle into a converted farmhouse B&B in Padstow with garden views and clotted cream teas. Ideal for beginners and families, the path is mostly flat and scenic, with spots like Wadebridge making great rest stops.
2. Hartington Trails, Peak District, England
Explore three trails from Hartington village, surrounded by stone-built manor B&Bs with roaring fireplaces. The Tissington Trail, High Peak Trail, and Manifold Way offer gentle rides on old railway lines. Along the way, find wildflowers, historic tunnels, and pastoral views, all easily accessible from converted farmhouses that cater to cyclists and nature lovers alike.
3. The Cuckoo Trail, Sussex, England
An 11-mile ride through forested paths and countryside art installations, this route leads you from Heathfield to Eastbourne. At day’s end, unwind in a 19th-century barn reborn as a cozy inn, complete with garden breakfasts. The ride’s calm, child-friendly terrain and rich history make it a serene yet enriching escape for any traveler.
4. Putney Bridge to Weybridge, London & Surrey
Glide through riverside greenery and regal Richmond Park before arriving at a centuries-old farmhouse B&B hidden in the Surrey hills. This 18-mile ride brings a surprising taste of rural calm so close to London. Watch deer roam, pass houseboats along the Thames, and toast your arrival in vintage charm and soft linens.
5. Mawddach Trail, North Wales
Following an 11-mile stretch from Barmouth to Dolgellau, this route traces an old rail bed flanked by estuary views and misty hills. Stay at a restored Welsh stone house with wood beams and garden paths. Enjoy dinner in nearby pubs or sip tea while soaking in views of the tranquil water just steps from your bike.
6. Taff Trail, South Wales
Covering 55 miles between Cardiff and Brecon, the Taff Trail winds through old mining towns, castles, and woodlands. Along the way, you’ll find B&Bs built from 19th-century stone barns offering hearty breakfasts and bike sheds. Ride through time with every turn, from industrial relics to ancient ruins under autumn canopies.
7. South Downs Way, Southern England
A rugged 100-mile chalk trail between Winchester and Beachy Head, this ride rewards effort with sea views and old flint farmhouse stays. These B&Bs, many from the 1800s, provide warm beds and even warmer scones. Let the quiet trails and endless sky refresh you each evening in timeless countryside comfort.
8. Coast to Coast Route, Northern England
Ride 140 miles from Whitehaven to Sunderland, passing through quaint towns and converted farm inns. Expect long downhills and rolling green vistas, perfect for multi-day exploration. These inns—once cattle barns and stone stables—now offer cozy stays with hearty pies and cyclist-friendly hosts who know the trails by heart.
9. Bealach Na Bà Circuit, Scotland
This 43-mile alpine-style loop on the Applecross Peninsula is for the adventurous. Wind past windswept cliffs and lochs before resting at a Highland croft house-turned-luxury B&B. Built in the early 1900s, these retreats blend rustic exteriors with plush interiors, offering fireside whisky and sweeping mountain views after a day of climbs.