Our cycling adventure in Somerset begins with the Quantock Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This place is a real treasure trove for two-wheeled enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails of varying levels of difficulty.

Quantock Hills is a relatively small area, but its scenic diversity is almost unbelievable. In an area of 99 square kilometers, you'll find everything from the rocky coastline of Kilve to steep, forested ridges and open moorland on the peaks. This diversity makes every kilometer of the route fascinating and unique.

For families with children, we recommend gentler routes through scenic valleys and along streams. More experienced cyclists can take on the challenge of climbing Wills Neck, the highest point in the Quantock Hills, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

One of the biggest advantages of the Quantock Hills is their accessibility. Numerous parking lots dotted around the area make it easy to start a hike from various points. It's also worth mentioning the well-marked trails, which make it easy for even less experienced cyclists to find their way around.

Quantock Hills is also a place rich in wildlife. During your ride you may come across wild horses grazing on the moors or deer sneaking through the forest backwoods. This is an additional attraction that is sure to delight the youngest participants of the trip.

The best time to visit the Quantock Hills is late summer and early autumn, when the heather and elms create a fabulous carpet of colors on the moors. But regardless of the season, the picturesque landscapes and fresh air guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Remember that although the Quantock Hills offer trails of varying levels of difficulty, it is advisable to plan your trip well and adapt it to the abilities of all family members. Bring enough water, snacks and a basic repair kit for your bike. Safety and comfort are the cornerstones of a successful tour!

The next stop on our Somerset bike tour is the Strawberry Line, a unique bike path that was built on the site of a former railroad line. This scenic path of about 16 kilometers connects the towns of Yatton and Cheddar, offering cyclists a fascinating journey through Somerset's diverse landscapes.

The Strawberry Line is ideal for families with children and those who prefer a quieter ride. The route is almost completely flat, making it accessible to cyclists of all ages and skill levels. It's also a great option for people who are just starting out on their cycling adventure.

One of the Strawberry Line's greatest assets is the variety of landscapes through which it leads. During the ride you will pass picturesque villages, green meadows, dense forests and even a nature reserve. Particularly charming is the section leading along the reservoir, where you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful views.

An interesting part of the route is the passage through the Shute Shelve tunnel, which is illuminated by LED lights. This is not only an attraction for the little ones, but also an interesting experience for adult cyclists.

Along the Strawberry Line there are many places to rest and recuperate. Passing villages offer charming cafes and pubs where you can enjoy local delicacies. It's a great opportunity to experience the hospitality of Somerset residents and enjoy regional specialties.

It's worth noting that the Strawberry Line is well marked, making it easy to navigate even for less experienced cyclists. However, it is always a good idea to carry a map with you or use a mobile app with the route to avoid possible difficulties in navigation.

Comparing the Strawberry Line with the routes in the Quantock Hills, it should be noted that it is much easier and more accessible to a wide range of cyclists. While Quantock Hills offers more challenging trails and spectacular high-altitude views, the Strawberry Line provides a quiet, relaxing ride through scenic lowland areas.

When planning a Strawberry Line trip, be sure to bring the right gear. Although the route is easy, it's a good idea to carry a basic bike repair kit, water and snacks. Also, pay attention to the weather - on sunny days, parts of the route can get a lot of sun, so don't forget sunscreen and headgear.

The Strawberry Line is not only a bike route, but also a piece of Somerset history. During the ride, you can discover many interesting facts about the former railroad line and its importance to the region. It's a great opportunity to combine active recreation with education and learning about local culture.

At the end of our Somerset bike tour, we move to Ashton Court, located on the outskirts of Bristol. This place offers a completely different experience from the previous routes, focusing on thrilling mountain biking.

Ashton Court Mountain Biking Trail is a mountain biking trail complex that attracts mountain biking enthusiasts from all over the region. Unlike the tranquil Strawberry Line or the scenic but challenging Quantock Hills trails, Ashton Court offers specially designed trails for adrenaline junkies and technical challenges.

The trails at Ashton Court are divided into different levels of difficulty, making the place suitable for both beginners and advanced cyclists. The main trail, known as the Nova Trail, consists primarily of sections of blue (medium) difficulty, with optional red (difficult) sections for more experienced riders.

One of the biggest advantages of Ashton Court is that the trails are available year-round and completely free of charge. This makes the place an ideal choice for families and groups of friends who want to regularly hone their mountain biking skills at no extra cost.

The complex also offers additional facilities, such as a bike rental store and a bike store, where you can get professional advice or make necessary repairs. There is also a cafe on the premises where you can relax and recuperate after a thrilling ride.

Comparing Ashton Court with the previously described routes, it is worth noting a few key differences:

1. difficulty level: While Strawberry Line offers easy, flat trails ideal for families, and Quantock Hills provides a variety from easy to difficult trails, Ashton Court focuses mainly on trails of medium to high difficulty.

2 Terrain type: Quantock Hills and Strawberry Line lead through natural landscapes, while the trails at Ashton Court are specifically designed and maintained for mountain bikers.

3. Accessibility: Ashton Court, due to its location close to Bristol, can be more crowded on weekends and holidays compared to the more remote trails in Quantock Hills.

4. infrastructure: Ashton Court offers better infrastructure for cyclists, including equipment rental and a bike store, something that may be lacking on the more remote routes.

When planning a visit to Ashton Court, be sure to prepare accordingly. Mountain trails require more attention and technical skill, so make sure your equipment is in good condition and your skills are suited to the difficulty level of your chosen route.

All in all, Somerset offers an incredibly diverse range of opportunities for cyclists - from quiet family trails like the Strawberry Line, to the scenic Quantock Hills trails, to the thrilling mountain trails at Ashton Court. Whether you're a novice cyclist or an experienced mountain biker, you'll find a route perfectly suited to your needs and abilities in Somerset. Go on a cycling adventure and discover the beauty of this unique county on two wheels!