Do it yourself

TRAVEL

Despite being near the southwestern tip of Britain, Newquay is one of the more easily accessible towns in Cornwall. Once the M5 runs out at Exeter, it’s about an hour and a half drive on the A30 to Newquay. Or you could fly – Newquay airport is served by regular flights from several airports, and trains to Bodmin are on the main line from London Paddington. From Bodmin, Newquay is 30 minutes by taxi or bus.

ACCOMMODATION

Cyclist stayed at the Fistral Beach Hotel, which is a 10-minute walk from the centre of Newquay. The four-star hotel has fantastic views out over Fistral Beach, which is only a short stroll if you fancy some surfing or a bracing swim after a hard day’s riding. If you want to be treated a little more gently, the Fistral Beach has a great spa, and its Dune Restaurant caters perfectly for those with food allergies (myself included).

THANKS

Thanks must go to Rob Ley of Cornwall Council and Zennor Vélo (zennorvelo.cc) for his help in organising this trip and for the massive turns he took on the front towards the end of the ride. Thanks also to Rob’s ‘cycling husband’, Jonny Burt, for acting as an entertaining (and knowledgeable) third rider on the day.

Newquay’s Little Italy (littleitalynewquay.com) deserves a special mention for Cyclist ’s delicious post-ride pizza. Finally, a heartfelt thanks to Sarah Harrington of Excess Energy (excess-energy.com) and Visit Cornwall’s Rosa Pedley – their logistical efforts were the main reason the trip was such a success. For more information on the area go to visitcornwall.com.