Cycling vacations in the South Downs

The South Downs is yet to experience the huge numbers of visitors experienced in other parts of the UK, a major plus for cyclists looking to explore the south coast: “We’re super passionate about cycling tours in Sussex” explains Harvey Downard, head of our cycling vacation specialists Cycling for Softies. “The area is much less developed as a destination for tour groups and therefore a lot more open-minded when it comes to visitors. Locations like the Cotswolds, for example, are already well known and sort of sell themselves. In the South Downs, however, not many people know about the local village pubs and sparkling wine vineyards that our cyclists head to. These are local employers in really quiet, picturesque locations.”

Knowing where to cycle is the key to planning a successful trip on two wheels. A great way to alleviate any uncertainty is to book a tailor made cycling vacation in the South Downs where all the routes have been tried and tested by local enthusiasts in advance.

Cycling for Softies recommend concentrating on Sussex: “We don’t want people to stick to a rigid itinerary. We want visitors to get to know the lesser-known locations which haven’t got into the big guide books. Places like Ditchling, where you can visit a sparkling wine estate for tasting sessions or pop into the arts and crafts museum that’s run by an independent charity. We know the area very well and can suggest a variety of distances, difficulties and points of interest to suit all cyclists” Harvey explains.

Their tours use designated routes to minimise cyclists’ environmental impact: “Although we encourage our self guided cyclists to take their time to explore and discover different destinations, we also want them to stick to designated cycle paths and respect the infrastructure that’s in place for cycling in the South Downs. The majority of routes that we recommend are also used by horses, walkers and other cyclists. It’s imperative that we respect other road users to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.”

Harvey points out that routes are used by a wide range of visitors and locals, which makes it even more vital that they are treated with respect: “Some routes, such as the Downs Link network, are accessible for wheelchair users and families with pushchairs, as well as pedestrians and cyclists. They connect lots of little villages and out-of-the way locations all the way from the coast to Midhurst, close to the Surrey border. Sticking to a recommended route, at a safe speed, is the best way to get into the Sussex countryside without damaging the environment or making it unsafe for yourself or other people.”

Tailor made cycling vacations in the South Downs can be booked all year round and the best time to go very much depends on your preferences as a cyclist. You won’t have as much daylight if you’re considering cycling during the autumn or winter, but what you will find at this time of year, though, are leafy woodland trails and far reaching sea and valley views. Cycling in the spring and summer is the best time for enjoying the ride without the worry of diminishing daylight. Some popular trails will be busier as it gets warmer but as long as you’re sensible and don’t speed down the lengthy hillside descents, you’re sure to be absolutely fine.