Take in some of ’s most stunning scenery as you cycle from Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head to on the south coast. Journey over rolling hills and rugged mountains through a myriad of landscapes. Encounter forests, glens, rivers, beaches, historic towns and quaint villages. A fantastic way to discover the Emerald Isle. Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure and the challenge of a lifetime.

Day 1 - 27 June Malin Head - Everyone makes their own way to the start at Malin Head, the most northerly point in Ireland. (We will organise a transfer from Belfast International Airport for those arriving by plane). After lunch and a briefing about the cycle challenge, we set off on a warm up ride across the picturesque Peninsula. This area has a rich history and is often referred to as ‘Ireland in miniature’ due to its rugged coastline, deserted sandy beaches and scenic mountain ranges. Overnight in the small seaside town of Buncrana. Day 2 - 28 June 32 miles / 52km approx. Buncrana - Irvinestown We leave the spectacular coastline of Buncrana this morning heading south to cross the North/ Malin South border at the River Foyle near Stabane. This area of Ireland has some of the richest Derry scenery of the country. We’ll understand why it is called the Emerald Isle as we ride past verdant Omagh glens, sparkling rivers and rolling forested hills. We spend the night in village of Irvinestown. Enniskillen Sligo 67 miles / 108km approx. Day 3 - 29 June Irvinestown - Roscommon IRELAND From Irvinestown we continue cycling through Galway rural Northern Ireland crossing the border back to the Irish Republic near the village of Ennis Swanlinbar. Along the way we enjoy an idyllic Limerick landscape of rugged mountains interspersed with pristine rivers and lakes. We ride on quiet country lanes towards tonight’s destination, the Mallow bustling market town of Roscommon. 71 miles / 113km approx.

Mizen Day 4 - 30 June Roscommon - Limerick Day 7 - 3 July Get set for the longest day in the saddle! Our - Mizen Head epic journey continues south past more beautiful By the end of today we will have ridden the length countryside bursting with lakes and rivers. We of Ireland – an incredible achievement! This last cycle through Ballinasloe, the largest town in day is a memorable one as we cycle past dramatic Galway. Then its onto County Clare which is coastal scenery to reach the finish line at Mizen perfect cycling country with generally flat terrain. Head, one of the most southerly points of the Late afternoon we reach Lough Derg, Ireland’s country. The beautiful peninsula of Mizen Head will second largest lake known for its prolific birdlife. make a fantastic backdrop to our group photo with This evening we experience warm Irish hospitality its stunning cliffs and sandy beaches. This evening in the lively city of Limerick where we overnight. we enjoy a well-earned celebratory meal together 87 miles / 139km approx. in Clonakilty. Day 5 - 1 July 50 miles / 80km approx. Limerick - Blarney Day 8 - 4 July Saddle up for a stunning ride all the way through Clonakilty - County Limerick and into . We skirt After breakfast we transfer to Cork International the edge of the beautiful Airport after a wonderful and rewarding week. carpeted with lush forests and heathland. There Please note that return flights are not included. will be some hilly sections but we’ll be rewarded This is a complex itinerary and is subject to change with magnificent scenery. Once into County Cork © Copyright of Classic Tours the terrain becomes less undulating. We finish by crossing the River Blackwater into Blarney, site of and home of the legendary . 63 miles / 101km approx. Day 6 - 2 July Blarney - Clonakilty Discover the wonders of County Cork today as we explore its rural backwaters. The area is well known for its three wild peninsulas and rugged coastline of hidden bays and coves. Our destination is the small seaside town of Clonakilty in a beautiful location at the head of Clonakilty Bay. 37 miles / 59 km approx. Registration fee: THE COSTS £199 Plus... Option 1 - you raise £1800 approx sponsorship (to be set by your chosen charity) Option 2 - you pay £896 and raise as much sponsorship as possible Raising Sponsorship Money Register and receive a fundraising pack full of information and ideas. Once you set your mind Visa & Travel Insurance to it, it’s amazing what you can achieve! Classic A visa is not required for British citizens. If you Tours and your charity can help you out with are non-British, please contact Classic Tours for lots of tips. further advice. A full valid passport is required. Who can take part? You must be insured to take part in this cycling Anyone over 18 years old is welcome as long as event – either through a company of your choice you are fit and healthy enough to do the challenge. or the Classic Tours recommend policy. You will need to provide proof of your insurance 8 weeks Fitness prior departure. This is a challenging event that will need a good level of training to participate. Training on What’s Provided hilly terrain is recommended. You will receive Accommodation, transfers, support staff, water a set of training guidelines after you register and all meals except breakfast on day 1 and lunch and dinner on day 8. Kit Please note that flights or other means of You will need to bring your own road bike and transfer to/from the event are not included. cycle helmet. A full packing list will be sent to you after registration. Other costs to budget for You will need to organise your own transport Support on the event to Belfast and your return back from Cork. You Experienced staff (tour manager, guides, will also need to budget for travel insurance to mechanic and doctor) will be there to provide take part in this event, as well as gratuities and help and encouragement whenever you need it. spending money. Accommodation Responsible Tourism Tourist class hotels throughout the ride. Classic Tours operates a responsible tourism policy which can be viewed on our website Food & Drink www.classictours.co.uk The food will be wholesome, tasty and plentiful. There will be water and snacks available throughout the cycle ride. Weather Daytime temperatures between 18-25°C however be prepared for rain or sunshine. Health Tetanus and Hepatitis A inoculations are suggested however please consult your GP for professional medical advice.

If you have any other questions not answered here please contact us. Tel 020 7619 0066 ext 208 or email [email protected] Creativity, planning and having fun are the secrets to fundraising success. Start by thinking who you know, what you enjoy doing and who can help you. Break down the amount into smaller chunks and start to make a plan. Below is an example to give you some ideas and once you’re signed up we’ll send you lots more tips and advice.

TARGET ACHIEVED!

Local school holds a non-uniform day and charges £1 each to £1800 support you £500

Raffle of prizes from local businesses. £300

Quiz nights at your local pub. £300

Organise an event of your choice, with a group of friends. £350

Use collecting tins and ask your local busy pubs if you and friends can collect on Saturday nights. £150

Sponsorship from friends and family through your Virgin Money Giving page and advertise it on social media (Facebook, Twitter etc). £200 Life-changing in a totally positive way!

John McWilliam 48, Laurencekirk We at Classic Tours are here to help and support you all the way through the event so please do get in touch if you have any questions not answered here.

Email: [email protected] Tel: 020 7619 0066 ext 208 Web: www.classictours.co.uk

Classic Tours are the originators of worldwide charity challenges and fully bonded under ATOL number 3379. Since 1992 we have helped hundreds of UK charities raise over £85 million.

The next steps 1. Speak to the charity you would like to raise funds for. 2. Sign up online at www.classictours.co.uk - complete the online registration form and pay the registration fee. 3. Classic Tours will then contact your chosen charity, confirm your place, send details of the event and set you on your way to fundraising success!

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Classic Tours has a full programme of Open Challenge Events in 2015 including:

Trek Mount Toubkal ● Cycle Costa Rica ● Arctic Dog Sledding ● Summit Kilimanjaro ● Nightrider™ Inca Trail Expedition ● Trek The Great Wall of China Cycle London to Paris

For more information on any of these challenges contact us on [email protected] or call 020 7619 0066 ext 208