A Karouac inspired road trip, to discover the adventures that lie within arm’s reach of our main roads. The second in our series, this time focusing on the M5!
For those dreaming of adventures (soon possible!) and staring up to the hills, as they drive past ridge-ways, footpaths and lakes, we’ve picked out our favourite must-see spots for biking, hiking, swimming and more – all just off of the M5!
Our Top 5 Adventures and Beauty Spots easily accessible from the M5
1. Cheddar Gorge
- At almost 400 feet deep and three miles long, this is England’s largest gorge, and with its weathered crags and pinnacles, one of England’s most spectacular natural sights. Perfect for hiking, biking, canoeing and even caving. Look out for Peregrine Falcons, the world’s fastest flying bird!
2. The Mendips
Described as ‘a wild land, ready for adventure’, these hills, lakes, gorges and outcrops are the walker’s paradise. Make sure you keep some boots in your boot – ready to head up the hills you’ve driven past so many times! The whole are is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
3. Strawberry Line Cycling
A continuous 30-mile traffic-free path following a reclaimed train line through the Medips, Chedder Gorge Wookey Hole and more! This path opens up Somerset ‘s stunning countryside and is the perfect excuse to break up your journey and hop on your bike!
4. Exeter to Exmouth Cycling
Hop off the M5 to Exeter and feel the freedom in cycling along the river Exe to the sunny South Devon Coast in Exmouth. A 26 mile cycle route and walkway with stunning views and predominantly off-road, passing through pretty villages and ending up with a paddle in the sea!
5. Dartmoor
Just beyond the M5, whether you’re a hiker, history lover or hawking expert, there is something for everyone in Dartmoor. With incredible moorland hikes – why not visit Dartmoor’s Daughter for a guided walk through the historic moors, stunning cycle rides and hidden away swimming spots, you’ll want to jump out of the car and dive straight in!
Our walking, biking and paddling tours visit all of these incredible places, so if you are looking for a longer escape to the country, adventuring on your doorstep, why not take a look at our weekend and week-long trips throughout the South West and beyond:
Here are a few of our favourite Walking and Cycling Trips in the South West:
Devon and Cornwall Walking – 6 Day Guided: On our guided Devon and Cornwall walking holiday, discover the UK’s longest and best loved National Trail and journey on foot through the stunning Dartmoor National Park. Escape the crowds with us to explore Devon’s moorlands and wild ponies, travelling down into Poldark country, along mineral tramways, into historic ports and coastal villages, and along the South West Coast with its 630 miles of unbroken footpath.
Devon and Cornwall Cycling – 6 Day Guided: Explore Devon’s Dartmoor National Park and wild ponies, escaping the crowds and returning to nature. Journey down into Poldark country, along our carefully chosen cycle routes, including mineral tramways, off road tracks and converted rail to trail paths, so you can bike at a leisurely pace without distractions and with stunning views around every corner, enchanted by the stories and history revealed within some of the finest landscapes and views in the world.
Cornwall Cycling – 6 Day Self-Guided: Our self-guided Cornwall cycling tour is ideal for those who want to get away from the crowds and back to nature, becoming immersed in the Cornish countryside and coast. Our carefully chosen cycle routes contain off road tracks and converted rail to trail paths, so you can visit all of the Cornish highlights on your bicycle, from the Jewel of St Ives to the stunning St Michael’s Mount, Charlestown harbour, Penzance, Padstow and, of course, Land’s End.
Head over to our Instagram for some more great cycling, walking and paddling inspiration throughout England.