Tarka Adventure mini break

On this easy-going two day adventure you’ll follow in the (paw) steps of Tarka the Otter. In Devon’s “Tarka Country” you’ll ride the most scenic section of the traffic free Tarka Trail and you can also kayak on the Torridge River where Tarka the otter used to swim! The tour also includes a special overnight stay in a yurt in the middle of the Devon countryside. Your yummy evening meal here will be handcrafted from as much local produce as possible. This short tour is ideal for novice cyclists and families with children who would like to embark on a light and fun outdoors cycling adventure.

Route Summary:

This tour starts and ends in Bideford at the local bicycle and kayak hire, both on the Tarka Trail and the Torridge River. The bicycle rental is available from 9 am on the first day until 1 pm the next day. Depending on tides you can do an optional two hour kayak adventure on the Torridge either on the first day before the start of the cycling or on the second day after the cycling. This kayaking itself is easy going thanks to the tide which will ease you inland at the start and will gently bring you back to the kayak rental downstream later. Changing facilities are available at the kayak hire.

The cycling journey to the overnight yurt accommodation can easily be covered in 2 hours when cycling at an easy pace, so why not cycle to Instow Beach first? It is only 30 minutes of cycling from the rental in the other direction, also on the Tarka Trail. This short section has great views over the Torridge and Taw estuaries and at Instow beach you can have lunch before heading on.

Once you are beyond Bideford the Torridge river valley starts to narrow. You'll cross the river multiple times and cycle through a short dismantled railway tunnel! Around every corner there is another view of Devon's beautiful countryside and you’ll also notice various art sculptures along the trail. At the former railway station of Torrington you have another opportunity for a break at the "Puffing Billy" café before you start a very gradual climb to the highest point of the Tarka Trail.

The yurt accommodation where you will stay for one night is basic but special and makes this arrangement a true adventure! In this remote location in the superb Devon countryside you are well away from the stresses of modern living. On arrival you’ll be welcomed with a drink and either cake or ice-cream before being shown to your yurt with its cosy camp beds. Showers and toilets are in an adjacent building. You’ll be served a tasty meal with as much local produce as possible in either the cafe or at the picnic tables outside (possibly a BBQ!). Weather depending you can sit outside all night around a bonfire (you can chop the logs!) and if the skies are clear you can be up for some great star gazing too! The next morning you’ll be treated to a full English Cyclist's Breakfast before heading down the Tarka Trail back to Bideford.

Check your Cycling Profile:

This arrangement is the perfect introduction to the world of cycling holidays. The Tarka Trail is extremely easy going. The whole route is traffic-free and therefore extremely suitable for novice cyclists and children. Note that children should be supervised by an adult at all times. There is a very gradual climb included on the first day, but on the second day you’ll cycle this same route back, meaning you’ll be descending this section!

Our bike hire partner has aluminium frame comfort bikes available with semi-slick tyres, ideal for off-road and on-road usage. All rental bikes have at least 18 gears, mud guards and luggage racks are fitted for your convenience. The use of a small pannier bag (adult bikes only) and helmet is included. If you wish to bring your own bikes, please let us know, so we can offer you a discount.

When can you start:

You can start this arrangement on any day you like. You can pick up the rental bicycles from 9 am onwards. Check in at the yurt accommodation is from 4 pm onwards. You’ll be advised on kayak times depending on the tide on the days you want to do this tour. You'll need to book this arrangement at least two weeks in advance.

Prices

£ 95 per adult
£ 75 per child (under 14s)

Included are:
- Tarka Trail cycle map
- Bicycle hire
- 1 night yurt accommodation (*)
- Welcome drink and cake or ice cream on arrival at the yurt accommodation
- Evening meal with dessert at the yurt accommodation (including one drink)
- Full "English Cyclists Breakfast” at the yurt accommodation
- Emergency assistance when required
- VAT
(*) Prices are based on all participants staying in the yurt together, all sleeping in individual camp beds. Bedding is included.

Not included are:
- Kayak hire (you can decide on the spot, costs are £ 15 per person for 2 hours, payable direct to rental)
- Entrance fees for museums and attractions
- Additional meals, drinks and snacks
- The return journey between your home and Bideford
- Travel and Cancellation Insurances
- All extra costs related to emergency assistance

Prices extra options:
Luggage transport between Bideford and accommodation: £50 per party

Travel Information:

By train: We encourage you travel to Bideford by public transport. First Great Western
and Cross Country Trains run train services into the West Country. Change at Exeter St. Davids for the train to Barnstaple. Various bus companies run services between Barnstaple station and Bideford. Get off at the Royal Hotel for a 5 minute walk to the bicycle and kayak rental. Total travel time from London: approximately 6 hours.

By plane: If you travel from further afield, Exeter Airport is the airport to which to fly. The airport is hub of carrier FlyBE. Take a bus to Exeter St. Davids station or a taxi to Digby and Sowton station to continue by train from there (see above). Total travel time from Exeter Airport: approximately 3 hours.

By car: Bideford has easy access from the M5 corridor via the A361/A39 North Devon Link road (exit 27). Take the Instow/East-the-Water turn off (at traffic lights) and turn left at round about at end of slip road. Keep going straight on until you arrive at the Bicycle and Kayak hire at the end of this road. Overnight parking is available at a secure Torridge District Council pay and display car park within a ten minute walk from the Bicycle and Kayak Hire. Total travel time from London: approximately 5 hours.