The Isle of Wight Cycling Festival 19 – 27 September 2009

The Isle of Wight Cycling Festival provides the opportunity to get off the beaten track and experience some of the islands most beautiful, unspoilt, countryside. We have put together a selection of fantastic rides with options for all levels, including the famous 70 mile Cycle the Wight and the ultra-tough Hills Killer Mountain Bike challenge to family rides and forest trails. Each day of the week-long festival will offer cyclists the opportunity to sample different cycling routes that will take in the most picturesque areas of the Island as well as local landmarks and the occasional country pub!

Cycling is a fun, convenient and healthy way to get around. It’s an ideal way to explore the countryside, up close and at your own pace, stopping off to see the sights along the way and resting with a well-earned picnic or pub lunch! The Isle of Wight is blessed with rolling countryside that makes it perfect for exploring by bike!

You can bring your own bike across on the ferry, or hire one on the Island. Some companies even offer a free bike delivery service to and from your hotel or self-catering establishment. Full details, plus 12 free, downloadable cycling routes, can be found at www.islandbreaks.co.uk/site/sports-and-outdoor-activities.

As part of the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival, cyclists who book ferry travel with Red Funnel from 18-28 September using promotional code CYC27 will receive a 10% discount – visit www.redfunnel.co.uk. Wightlink Ferries are also offering specially discounted fares, valid 17-29 September – call 0871 376 1000 and quote ‘Isle of Wight Cycling Festival’ (www.wightlink.co.uk).

For details on how to get to the Isle of Wight, where to stay and what to see and do, visit www.islandbreaks.co.uk or telephone 01983 813813.

The Isle of Wight Cycling Festival is organised and promoted by Isle of Wight Council. More information regarding the annual Isle of Wight Cycling Festival can be found at www.sunseaandcycling.com or call the events team on 01983 823070. A complete programme of rides is available on the website and the festival programme will be available from Island Tourist Information centres from July.

WIN A 5 NIGHT BREAK AT THE ORCHARDS HOLIDAY PARK

To enter this competition all you have to do is to sign up for the Cycling Festival newsletter and you will obtain free entry for a five night break at the Orchards Holiday Park at a beautiful location on the Island, perfect for relaxing or planning your rides.

Click here to enter and put competition in the subject box