ON THE MAP: WINCHESTER TO
EASTBOURNE
GROUND COVERED: 160KM
Get away from the traffic by taking a
mountain bike for a tour along the colourful
South Downs Way, a long off-road trail that
runs along the South Downs National Park
in the southern part of the country. There
are signs along the route, so navigation
skills are less of a must-have, and it can be
attempted in a day, or over two to four days
with stops along the way. The route is pretty
undulating; there are a few hills – and there
can be slippery chalk surfaces (so be sure to
check the weather before you set off).Tackle It:
1 Be mentally prepped: If you’re more
used to road cycling, this is a whole
different ball game. You’ll need to be
ready to push yourself as this can be
almost double the effort of road cycling.
2 Plan an overnighter: If you’re intending
to complete the ride over a couple of days,
you’ll need accommodation. However,
there are only a few hotels along the way,
so be sure to book a room well in advance.
3 Don’t forget the snacks: You will need
them as you’ll be burning off a whooooole
lotta kilojoules on this ride.Two -wheeled
TRAVELS
The South
Downs
Way
124England: The home of bangers and mash, tea, the Sunday
Roast... and these ultimate countryside routes to saddle up on