Mendips Sportive

Sportives don't get much more stunning than this ride through the Mendips Hills. consistently voted one of the best locations in the UK for cycling. Starting just outside Glastonbury, the Sportive starts out completely flat, and stays that way for much of the way, but there are a handful of major climbs thrown in for good measure - what else would you expect in a land littered with so many beautiful gorges?

Make sure you've fuelled up before Cheddar Gorge, which possesses a beauty, and a climb, that will take your breath away. As you pass through the Gorge, try to take a look around so as not to miss the impressive scenery towering over you, then pedal your way up the winding roads to the top. It's spectacular, and once you’ve passed it, it’s plain sailing back to ride HQ.

The Mendips Sportive can be considered tough - the 74 mile Standard route has some great climbs to tackle, including Cheddar Gorge - but those with elevation phobia can always opt for the Short 36 mile route. It might not take you through Cheddar, but it is still very beautiful and very rewarding.