Short Breaks in Cornwall, for Cyclists

As the leaves begin to turn and the mist clings to the highest points on Bodmin Moor, autumn can be the best time to explore the Cornish countryside by bike. Over the last few years the region has seen the development of 180 miles worth of bike trails collectively known as The Cornish Way stretching from Land's End to Bude. So, for those looking for short breaks in Cornwall and eager to go by two wheels, here is a quick guide to The Cornish Way.

The ‘First and Last Trail' is a great one to explore at the start of your journey. At 25 miles in total, the route takes you from the cliffs of the far western coast to the picturesque seaside town of Hayle in the north. For a shorter ride kick off in Marazion and take in St. Michaels Mount and the local pubs before an afternoon's ride towards St. Erth.

The Engine House Trail takes in the heartland of Cornwall and shows of the county's mining heritage along the way. One of the first ports of call on the route is the Hayle Estuary, a beautiful nature reserve of beaches and mudflats which are a must-see for any nature or bird lover. Between Camborne and Redruth is Cornwall's most honest mining country, and the trail ends in Truro - Cornwall's historic and culturally important capital.

From Truro the question is then whether to head east toward St. Austell and Bodmin on The Coast and Clay Trail or north through Newquay to Padstow on The St. Piran Trail. The former takes you across the Fal Estuary and onto the unique Roseland Peninsula - a haven of rural beauty and picturesque villages. From Mevagissey to St. Austell the route is mostly off road and free from traffic. It's a tough decision though, for the latter route takes you past Watergate and Constantine Bays - some of the county's most beautiful and impressive beaches.

North Cornwall is also home to two significant cycle routes, one (conveniently) called The North Cornwall Trail and the most famous Camel Trail. Wadebridge is a good starting town on the latter route. Either take the trail north along the Came Estuary to the fish and chip town of Padstow, or take the route south east to Bodmin (or further to Wenfordbridge) and take in the wooded Camel Valley. The North Cornwall Trail starts from where the Camel Trail stops and ends up on the Devon-side West Country Way. Here you get to explore what Bodmin has to offer - and some of the biggest hills you've seen in days!

Sarah Maple writes about hotels in Falmouth Cornwall and luxury Cornwall hotels.