Isle of Wight Randonnee 2017

Do you love to cycle? The Isle of Wight invites you to take your bike through the British countryside in a non-competitive cycle ride that’s been around since 1985. There is no registration fee but you have to submit an online registration before the event that’s going to take place on April 30th, 2017. There are 2 types of rides you can choose from depending on your level of fitness and willpower: 100 km and 55 km, respectively. The event will start at 9 a.m. and it finish at 6 p.m. Don’t overestimate your stamina if you have never cycled for several hours in a row. It is strenuous but very rewarding.

The route takes you through the entire island on minor roads and lanes with the purpose of maximizing the contact of the rider with the gorgeous scenery of the island. If you are one of those who come from the mainland to the island especially for this event, it’s recommended to buy the ferry tickets in advance because there usually are queues during this time of the year. Not only that you risk missing the beginning of the ride but you will also start your day in stress by wasting time in lines. As for the actual event tickets, you can buy them online from sites like Wightlink and Red Funnel.

How to get there

After you get off the Fishbourne ferry, take the B3339 and then the A3054 to Newport. From there, take the A3021 to East Cowes. If you get to the island via the Yarmouth ferry, take the A3054 to Newport and then to Ryde. From there, take the A3021 to East Cowes.

In case you don’t have your own car, there are public transport options available. If you take the Ryde Cataraman/Hovertravel, you have to get on the No. 4 bus that will take you all the way to East Cowes. From the Yarmouth ferry, take the No. 7 bus to Newport where you will change to the No. 5 bus to your final destination. In order to learn the bus times in advance, call this number: +44 0871 200 2233.

So, here’s what you have to do:
1. Register online for the event
2. Check bus times prior to your trip in order to synchronize every aspect perfectly. If you can’t make ends meet, rent a car or ask someone with a car to drive you.
3. Buy the ferry ticket in advance
4. Get on your bike and enjoy the view.