How we got there

TRAVEL SWISS offers up to 119 weekly flights from London City, Heathrow, Gatwick (seasonal), Manchester, Birmingham and Dublin to Zürich. All-inclusive fares start from £78 one-way, including all airport taxes, one piece of hold luggage and hand luggage, plus meal and drink. SWISS will also transport your bike free of charge as part of your standard baggage allowance. For more information visit swiss.com.

From Zürich Airport, Burgdorf can be reached by train in one hour 30 minutes using the efficient Swiss transport network. Visit myswitzerland.com/rail for tickets and timetable information. Take advantage of the Swiss Transfer Ticket, which covers a round-trip between the airport and your destination. Prices are £112 second class and £184 in first class.

ACCOMMODATION Cyclist stayed at the luxurious Hotel Stadthaus in the centre of Burgdorf. It offers spacious rooms, top class food and is welcoming of cyclists. Prices from CHF 200 (£158) per room per night based on two sharing incl. breakfast. Go to stadthaus.ch.

DESTINATION The Swiss capital of Bern offers breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps, and the architectural treasures of the old town have helped it secure protected UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Bern is also home to retired pro and Olympic champion Fabian Cancellara, who used the nearby roads as his training ground. Beyond the city borders, the Emmental region offers undulating landscapes, typical Bernese farmhouses, worldrenowned Emmental cheese and a wide range of outdoor activities. Find out more at bern.ch.