We had a larger group of 10 join our annual Off-Road adventure in May which is testament to the growing interest in these trips. We rode the recently launched Royal Chilterns Way, which is a 280km/174-mile off-road journey through the breath-taking Chilterns, blending scenic trails, historic landmarks and charming local gems.
The ride coinciding with the May heatwave, with record breaking temperatures which showed the wonderful scenery off and kept the trails dry and fast.
Our plan was to transport bikes and riders to Reading which would be our start and finish point.
Day 1 we left Reading and headed to Longwick which was a 43-mile trip with the major highlight being the stop at the Cheese Shed at Nettlebed where the legendary cheese toasties were enjoyed by the group. We stayed in a pub on the route and topped up the cholesterol with typical pub fayre and beer.
Day 2 was scheduled to be the longest day of the tour with a 53-mile ride to Aldbury: a shorter option was planned as a contingency. The day started with a tough climb which took a while for the group to conquer but was rewarded with stunning views for miles over the Buckinghamshire countryside. After a breakfast stop, we decided to split the groups with the intention that the slower group would take the shorter route and the faster group the full 53 miles. Unfortunately, the faster group suffered mechanicals requiring an un-scheduled visit to a bike shop. The two groups met up at the coffee stop and both groups took the shorter route to the evening stop at the excellent Greyhound Inn.
Day 3 took us 36 miles to Marlow and started with a ride along a number of canals before heading into the hills and forests. The temperature was increasing by the day, but the cooling air whist riding and the long forest trails kept us cool. The cumulative effort in the heat meant that the pace was slower than anticipated so it was a long day but one full of great views, trails and varied scenery.
Day 4 was our final day and took us 46 miles back to Reading. The day revealed some of the best views with a particular memory being overtaken by thunderous horses exercising on the Butser-like hill we were attempting to ride up. The route took us on to the Ridgeway which is always a stunning place to ride with great views and fast trails. As we approached Reading, a few hardy riders went for a dip at Pangbourne in the designated public swimming stop before we made our way back to Reading to conclude the tour.
We highly recommend this route for its stunning scenery, fast singletrack, forest trails, and bridleways. Although it is close to major towns and roads, making it easy to access, it still feels rural and unspoilt. We probably underestimated both the amount of climbing and the beauty of the route.
Thanks to Paul Watts for organising the logistics for this great tour.
Planning is already underway for our next adventure!
