It can be tempting to lounge around and over-indulge in the Easter holidays but this can leave us feeling more tired and uninspired than ever. Recharge your lust for life with these six stunning cycle routes that have the Formby Cycles seal of approval.
1. Bealach na Ba, Applecross, Scotland
Challenge yourself on this exhilarating Highland route through the rugged mountain pass of Scotland’s Applecross peninsula. With steep inclines, tight bends, and several competitive cycle events a year, this wind-whipped adventure may not be for the faint-hearted but is definitely for those who want a bank holiday to remember.
2. Bath Two Tunnels circuit, Somerset
This breath-taking circular route of thirteen miles allows you to take in the historic sights of Bath and its most iconic tunnels: the Devonshire Tunnel at Bloomfield and the Combe Down Tunnel at Combe Down. A spectacular riverside cycle track that also takes you past the popular Wheelwrights Arms in Monkton Combe, so don’t forget to refuel with a hearty pub lunch.
3. Marine Drive (Great Orme), Llandudno, Wales
Take in a healthy lungful of bracing sea air on the four mile trip around the headland of the impressive Great Orme. The route boasts spectacular views in every direction and in every season, from the rocky ledges and tumbling waves to the sprawling fields and ancient Saint Tudno church, built in the 6th century on the way to Great Orme’s summit. The Rest and Be Thankful Cafe half way along your route offers welcome refreshment, whether warming your hands around a mug of tea or cooling off with an ice cream.
4. Central Pennines, Yorkshire, Northern England
What better way to spend a bank holiday than by ascending the ‘backbone of England’? Stretching from the Peak District in Derbyshire to the Cheviot Hills on the Anglo-Scottish border, this varied and expansive area has been the inspiration of writers, poets, (and cyclists!) alike. With careful planning according to the wind and weather, the Pennines offer a truly unforgettable journey across stunning terrain. Pause by a stream for a home-made picnic or race along the rocky ledges. Take in the Pennines at your own pace and make memories that will last a lifetime.
5. B3387, Dartmoor (to Haytor), England
Well known to cyclists as a prestigious feature of the Tour of Britain, this exceptionally challenging route has breath-taking backdrops to recommend it and an ascent that is a staggering six kilometres in length. Haytor may be one of the most famous ascents but Dartmoor has a lot to offer cyclists of every age and ability. Experience the atmosphere of a race or simply cycle along tracks that take in the beauty of the rolling hillsides.
6. Hardknott Pass, Cumbria, England
Even in the midst of some serious competition for the title, Cumbria’s Hardknott Pass stands out as one of the most famous and iconic routes in the Lake District. Feel that satisfying burn in the legs as you ascend at a gradient of almost 33% against the backdrop of some of the most unspoilt scenery that England has to offer. Exceptionally steep and winding but glorious for the feeling of accomplishment afterwards, the Hardknott Pass moves between Eskdale and the Duddon Valley before Wynrose Pass continues to Langdale Valley and on to Ambleside. This route attracts visitors from all over the nation and beyond.
Find your nearest cycling route to hit this Easter. Happy cycling!
Post written in collaboration with Formby Cycles.
Where are you cycling this Easter? What is your favourite route?