Valley of the Rocks 200

A straightforward route with a spectacularly scenic and rather challenging section along the North Devon coast. There are good cafe and pub controls, and food and drink at the finish.

From Honiton the event takes minor lanes northwards over the edge of the Blackdowns to the Lowman valley, via Bampton, and on to Dulverton on the edge of Exmoor. After a cafe stop it climbs on to the moor through Simonsbath and descends through the spectacular gorge to Lynmouth. The climb up to Lynton is more sharp than short, but there's a reward in the form of good food at Mother Meldrum's at the entrance to the Valley of the Rocks.

The next section is short, scenic, and very hard. It follows steep narrow lanes that cling to the coast and offer fine views down to the beach as well as across to the Welsh coast. It's only 20k, but the control at Combe Martin won't be too soon for most riders.

There follows a long steady climb to South Molton and a direct but laney route to Crediton and the final control.

The final leg is a cross-country route going across the Exe Valley before joining the old A30 for an easy run back to Honiton and the finish.