Description
Ride Overview
Ride the newest off road route in the UK, the 240km West Kernow Way. Starting in Penzance, this glorious ride takes in the best gravel, backroads in this part of Cornwall. Ride past beautiful beaches, old tin mines, over wild moors and past ancient sites.
With a fully signed route, regular checkpoints with feed stops, luggage transfers, hotels and pre ride socials this is the perfect way to take on the brilliant West Kernow Way.
THREE STAGES | 260KM
Bike & Tyre Choice: A classic route where there is no perfect bike choice. 50% of the route is on quiet Cornish backroads but some of the off road sections are technical and rocky. Overall a gravel bike will be the best choice but there will be some descents where you would want your mountain bike. A hardtail would be good off road but obviously slower on the tarmac.
Ride Highlights
– Stunning 240km gravel loop in beautiful West Cornwall
– Luggage transfer, signed route & friendly atmosphere
– Ride past tin mines, ancient sites, wild moorland and past beautiful beaches
– Social rider village at the end of each day & regular checkpoints
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Countdown to September 2nd
Accommodation
Hayle: Sept 2nd | Redruth: Sept 3rd
Choose between a shared room (2 beds) with one other rider, a private room (1 double bed, 1 person) or a double room (1 double bed, 2 people). We stay at:
2nd September
Travelodge Hayle
3rd September
Travelodge Redruth Camborne
Pricing includes breakfast.
Stage One
Penzance to Hayle 85km | 1400m
After a short roll on the tarmac opposite St Michael’s Mount to Penzance, the West Kernow Way starts with a stunning first 46km hugging the coast taking in the amazing beach at Porthcurno & Lands End passed the old tin mines before turning inland for a lumpy middle section with a stop at the Bronze Age monument Mên-an-Tol. The final 20km is mostly downhill to the stage finish in Hayle.
Stage Two
Hayle to Redruth: 107km | 2,050m
The Queen Stage takes us from the north coast to Lizard Point and back up to Redruth on a ride with a bit of everything. Starting off with a lumpy 20km down to the coast, we head south all the way down to Lizard Point with some nice rolling terrain and plenty of short, sharp climbs both on & off road.
The last 20km is particularly punchy with a couple of tough climbs before finishing close to the castle on Carn Brea.
Stage Three
Redruth to Marazion: 71km, 1,000m
We leave the easiest day for last with a finish expected early afternoon so you can get home at a reasonable time. Heading around Redruth, we take in some of the best gravel of the weekend before a quick 25km back down to the coast and a picturesque finish opposite St Michael’s Mount.
FAQs
What type of bike should I ride?
No easy choice for on this one with lots of backroads but some technical off road sections. A hardtail mountain bike would be fine on some sections and descents but overall a gravel bike is preferred (and more fun). E bikes are very welcome on our rides.
Where is the start / finish?
The ride starts and finishes in Marazion opposite St Michael’s Mount. There is weekend parking available for £36.
What happens if I have a mechanical / accident?
We have first aiders & mechanics at all the feed stops and ride captains along the route to support.
What shall I pack with me for the ride?
You need to have a water bottle, basic kit to repair punctures, inner tubes & riding with a helmet is compulsory. Our feed stops have water, coke, cake, fruit & the best tasting sports nutrition bars & nut butters from Outdoor Provisions. We will send a comprehensive packing list for the ride.
Will I be riding with other people?
We will set you off each day in small groups but you can ride at your own pace. The whole route is signposted with regular feed stops so you can go as hard or easy as you like, meeting other riders at the end of the day.
Do I need to book my own accommodation?
No, your booking includes hotel stays at the end of stage one & two.
How does the luggage transfer work?
You will leave your luggage at the pickup area. We will collect it and drop it off at your next hotel. On the last day your luggage will be at the rider village when you finish.
