Local Biking
The Clay Trails
Although there is not a cycle route directly from Polruan Holidays, from Fowey near by at Par Sands you can get on to one of the 'Clay Trails' routes, which are a number of trails around the St Austell area including routes around the Eden Project; the China Clay Museum at Wheal Martyn; Pentewan and Bugle. This part of the country is rich in industrial heritage. Created by 250 years of clay mining, the striking and dramatic scenery is visible from distances of many miles.
The Clay Trails, first opened in 2005, are part of 'The Cornish Way', which offers over 200 miles of linked trails across the county. The Clay Trails also link to The National Cycle Network.
For information on the Clay Trails, including maps and activities, visit www.claytrails.co.uk.
You can download a copy of the Clay Trails map from Sustrans at www.sustrans.org.uk.
The Camel Trail
Also part of The Cornish Way, The Camel Trail is a very successful recreational trail, 18 miles long, on the old railway line between Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow. The Padstow to Wadebridge section of the railway line was opened in 1899 providing access to Waterloo via Launceston and Okehampton, but the part from Wadebridge to Poleys Bridge is one of the oldest in the world, opened in 1834 to bring sand from the estuary to the inland farms.
Traffic-free, smooth surfaced and virtually level, the trail is safe and easy to use for families and the mobility impaired. With free access to the secluded woodlands of the river valley and breath taking views across the Camel Estuary, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Various attractions can be found near the Camel Trail, such as Bodmin Jail and The Camel Winery.
A free Camel Trail leaflet is available from North Cornwall Information on 01872 327310.
To download a leaflet about the Camel Trail visit the Cornwall Council website at www.cornwall.gov.uk.
Pentewan Cycle Hire
Our nearest cycle hire centre, located between St Austell and Mevagissey, Pentewan Cycle Hire has a large range of bikes available to hire and purchase, as well as bike accessories and a repair service. A delivery service is available. They will also give advice and information about the local cycle routes.
The nearby Pentewan ValleyTrail is part of the Clay Trails, and winds its way through wetland and woodland alongside the river.It offers several miles of flat traffic-free cycling. The hire centreis situated in the village of Pentewan, at the base of the PentewanValley Trail, on the B3272 St. Austell to Mevagissey road.
Camel Trail Cycle Hire
You can hire bikes, tandems, and child seats and trailers from this popular hire shop, which is ideally located for the Camel Trail. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Bridge Bike Hire
Also on the Camel Trail, with a large choice of bikes and accessories including tandems, child trailers and wheelchair bikes, as well as a delivery and pick up service to camp sites. Please contact them for more details.
Bodmin Bikes
You can hire bikes, tandems, and child seats and trailers from this popular hire shop, which is ideally located for the Camel Trail. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
