![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/united-kingdom/essex/25148369690/lamarsh-1.webp)
The Gravel Explorer
A gravel cycling route starting from Colchester
Discover the scenic countryside and small villages in Essex on this adventurous gravel route.
Map
![Map miniature of "The Gravel Explorer" cycling inspiration in Essex, United Kingdom. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/united-kingdom/essex/colchester/gravel/152364.webp)
This bike route takes you through picturesque Essex countryside, with beautiful views of rolling hills and charming villages. The terrain is perfect for gravel biking, with a mix of smooth tracks and challenging climbs. The route starts near Colchester and will take you on a 66 km journey, with a total ascent of 426 meters. Along the way, you'll pass through West Bergholt, Lodge Hills, Lamarsh, Polstead, and finally back to Colchester. This route is suitable for experienced and well-trained cyclists who enjoy off-road adventures.
gravel
66 km
426 m
Tough
Route profile
Highlights on the route
0 km
0 km
Start: Colchester City centerColchester: Colchester: Explore history and conquer challenging climbs.
Colchester in Essex, United Kingdom, provides a pleasant cycling experience for both road and gravel cyclists. The locality offers a mix of urban and rural routes, allowing cyclists to ride through historic areas and countryside tranquility. Colchester is also located near renowned climbs like Colchester Hill, which adds an extra challenge for those seeking uphill adventures. With its variety of cycling routes and proximity to famous climbs, Colchester receives a ranking of 4 for cycling tourism.5 km
5 km
West BergholtVillageWest Bergholt is a quintessential English village with a lovely parish church and traditional tea rooms.
12 km
12 km
Lodge Hills69 mPeakLodge Hills offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a highlight for nature enthusiasts.
18 km
18 km
LamarshVillage50 km
50 km
PolsteadVillage66 km
66 km
ColchesterCityColchester is the oldest recorded town in Britain, with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Explore its Roman walls, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
66 km
66 km
Finish: Colchester City centerColchester: Colchester: Explore history and conquer challenging climbs.
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of West Bergholt](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/west-bergholt-5.webp)
![Image of Rowhedge](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/rowhedge-5.webp)
![Image of Wivenhoe](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/wivenhoe-5.webp)
![Image of Great Horkesley](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/great-horkesley-4.webp)
![Image of Elmstead Market](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/elmstead-market-5.webp)
![Image of Great Bentley](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/great-bentley-1.webp)
![Image of Brightlingsea](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/brightlingsea-5.webp)
![Image of Manningtree](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/essex/manningtree-5.webp)