Our 2010 training weekends are scheduled: please visit the Dates & Prices page for information
Are you riding in a big European cyclosportive event like the Etape du Tour this summer? Are you training for the London to Paris event, the Marmotte or one of the UK's tough, new cyclosportives? Do you need to get some quality miles - and some big climbs - into your legs, to take your training schedule to a new level? Or do you simply want to ride your bike in glorious countryside?
'I can't recommend it highly enough... The company was terrific and the ride was amazing' Simon O'Hagan, The Independent Read more...
Cyclosportive-simulated rides
We provide small group, fully supported, training rides over weekends in spring and early summer, guided by pro cyclists. The rides are specifically designed to simulate the rigour of major cyclosportives - the 2010 Etape route includes over 3,500m of climbing and a summit finish. Completing a weekend with us in the Brecon Beacons will give you the confidence to ride your cyclosportive at full tilt - something you can't say about the Surrey Hills or the Chilterns.
'Nigh on perfect! The weather, the routes, the vehicle support, the accommodation and your personal enthusiasm were all brilliant.' Mike Smith, Managing Director, Baxter Storey.
The best Etape training countryside in the UK
We are based in the Usk Valley, between the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons, in the heart of the National Park. The finest road cycling in southern Britain – and the home training ground for pros like Nicole Cooke, Magnus Backstedt and Geraint Thomas – is our backyard. And we’re only 2 hours 30 minutes by train from London. Almost uniquely for the UK, the climbs here are long: our rides take in many of the UK Category 1 climbs included in the Dragon Ride and the Tour of the Black Mountains - two of the toughest cyclosportives in the UK calendar - as well as the Tour of Britain and the Grand Prix of Wales. These long climbs will give you an invaluable insight into the Etape 'suffer-fest', and the ascent of the mighty Tourmalet.
'Brilliantly organised and fun weekend. For the first time I think I might actually make it round the Etape.' Charles Farara, Bloomberg, London
Professionally guided and supported etape training rides
Our Saturday rides are guided and paced by professional cyclists with years of racing experience. Several have competed for Team GB and in World Championships. The Sunday rides are more relaxed, and guided by local racers with a wealth of cyclosportive experience to pass on. We provide professional support in the form of a backup vehicle carrying everything you need – energy snacks, fruit, a proper lunch (not just another gel), spare wheels, tools and an extra layer for those fast descents. For an entire weekend, all you have to think about is how you are riding: we'll take care of everything else.
Jacques Anquetil famously said he liked to prepare for a race with 'a good pheasant, some champagne and a woman'. That may be taking things a little too far. Ride hard, eat well and sleep deeply is our simple ethos. We believe you’re entitled to a little luxury and some first-class food when you’ve spent all day on your bike, putting the hammer down in the Brecon Beacons. That's why our training weekends are based at the Gliffaes, an delightful country house hotel beside the River Usk with a reputation for excellent food. View the hotel website here. After the big ride, have a big soak; have a 'cool down massage' on us, from one of our professional sports masseurs; or just sit on the terrace above the River Usk. When you've got a drink in your hand, come and listen to an hour long seminar on how to successfully complete your major cyclosportive event, before we all sit down to a feast in the dining room.
Want to receive a one page pdf at the beginning of each month with advice on training, diet and the right bike for the Etape? Register now
