Haytor Vale

The most recognisable climb on Dartmoor, ascending from the village of Haytor Vale toward the iconic granite tors that define the eastern moor skyline. The early ramps out of the village bite immediately at 8-10%, before the gradient eases to a more manageable 5-6% on the exposed upper section. The road surface is good quality tarmac throughout, and above 400m the view opens across the entire eastern moor — on clear days the English Channel is visible to the south. A regular training climb for local club riders and a consistent feature on sportive routes across the South West. The descent back toward Bovey Tracey on the northern side is fast and technical, requiring full attention on the tight lower switchbacks.