Simple Cycle Tours have announced their 2016 programme, with two three-day tours in the North York Moors and the Peak District. Billed as "a friendly cycle tour", the organisers say the rides offer "a fresh take on the concept of a cycle tour" - and it's a package that we think will appeal to sportive riders as well as the more leisurely cycle tourist.
Two events will take place in 2016: the Peaks 175 on 10th-12th June, and the return of the Yorkshire 199 on 2nd-4th September. Both tours are three-day road rides taking place in two iconic UK destinations: the North York Moors and the Peak District.
The routes themselves are well-ridden by enthusiastic locals and small supported tours, but what Simple Cycle Tours are doing is a bit different. By sign-posting the whole route, increasing rider numbers to as many as 80 and staying in shared accommodation, a whole new genre of event is created.
The tours are aimed at anyone from newly blooded road cyclists to seasoned experts, with routes of between 40 and 75 miles per day on offer to allow riders a choice of challenge. Participants' bags are carried from the start to finish each day and a tour mechanic is on hand should it be needed. Accommodation, breakfast and a barbecue on the Friday night is included in the price, which means participants will have plenty of opportunities to meet other riders too.
The founder, John Wilson says, "We're looking to create a really sociable and light-hearted atmosphere at the same time as open up some really extraordinary and beautiful routes that are much less accessible on single day rides. We had some amazing feedback from our first tour in August 2015 and we're looking to do the same again in 2016, but this time even bigger and better."
Sportive.com's Andy sampled the first running of the Yorkshire 199 last year, and was so impressed by the whole experience that he turned down the offered press place, insisting on paying his way - unheard of! You can read his report here:
Yorkshire 199: I rode 200 miles for a fish supper
After Andy's tales from the road, it's safe to say we're fans of the Simple Cycle Tours concept. So, whether you're looking to get in some training miles for your next big sportive, or simply fancy a long weekend of cycling in glorious countryside with excellent company, why not check them out.
Places on the 3-day tours start at less than £200 per person, with full details and booking at www.simplecycletours.co.uk.
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