From Scott of the Antarctic to Star Wars, Ireland's Ride Dingle sportive packs a wealth of cultural, historical and natural landmarks into its 120km.
Entries close today for this year's edition, which takes place next weekend on 27 April 2024.
Based on the Dingle Peninsula in county Kerry, Ride Dingle offers two routes: 55km and 120km, rolling out of the eponymous picturesque coastal town.
Entries are open now at ridedingle.com.
First port of call is Slea Head, the most westerly point in Ireland. Movie fans may recognise Coumeenoole Beach from the film Ryan's Daughter, while eagle-eyed Star Wars fans will recognise Luke's seaside retreat in Star Wars Episode VIII.
A feed stop in Ballyferriter will fuel riders on the short course for the 6km run home to Dingle, but for those on the long route the day's biggest challenge starts here.
The Conor Pass is Ireland's highest mountain pass, and one of the most famous and difficult climbs in the country.
"The 5km climb will leave the legs crying out and the heart rate pumping," say the organisers, "but it's all worth it with the fantastic, technical descent into Cloghane."
On a clear day don't forget to pause at the top to take in stunning Atlantic views of Brandon Bay. From here the route hugs the coastline along Brandon Bay and on to the food stop at Camp.
Next stop is Annascaul, birthplace of famous Antarctic explorer Tom Crean. Crean was a member of Scott's 1911-1913 Terra Nova expedition. Crean received the Albert Medal after a 56km solo walk across the Ross Ice Shelf to rescue one of his shipmates.
Entries to Ride Dingle are open now, priced €75 for the 120km route or €55 for the 55km option. Entry includes a customised finisher medal, food and water stops on a fully marshalled course, and a post race celebration with hot food.
Don't miss the chance to ride one of Ireland's most scenic sportives - entries close today, Friday 19 April.
Find out more and enter at ridedingle.com.
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