Most Inspirational Moment
The Breath taking views on the final day for the Atlas descent, with far off views of the sea as we travelled through the lush green trees in the mountains tops as we cycled down 40kms along the mountain trails. Fabulous and memorable !
Thoughts on Group Leader
The leader of the group was excellent, good fun and well organised. Always working hard to make sure your bike was in top working order. He looked after us throughout the entire trip and worked with great energy and enthusiasm every day . He talked us through each part of the route, gave me some excellent tips to improve my cycling technique. Regular stops and snack breaks. Any problems with hotels, food etc he sorted out in a flash. Had a real and genuine passion for cycling which made everything some much fun. Brilliant cyclist !
Advice for Potential Travellers
My advice would be think about SPD pedals if you aren't that familiar with mountain biking, at least for the first few days if you need to get familiar with the bike. Bring plenty of fresh cycling gear and keep the evening gear to just a few items, but include a fleece or jumper. It can get a bit chilly sometimes so bring a gillet or very thin jacket, but things quickly warm up quickly so plenty of strong sun cream. Personally I didn't need a camelback as there were plenty of stops for water and snack breaks, don't forget your water bottle. I brought a small saddle bag to carry a few items with me. You'll need a combination of decent- ish level of fitness without having to be a fitness fanatic, be comfortable on a bike, have head for heights and sometimes you might need be open to a few challenges as you tackle a few rocky parts of the decent. If you have a small camera, that you can slide in your pocket then bring that. If you are a starva fan then don't forget your mobile phone, and a plastic cover or bag for protection. Gloves are essential. Don't be afraid to bring the lycra although not always recommended in a few areas. Seems more hassle than its worth to bring your own bike, the Genesis Bikes were great. Decent Helmet, if you are like me you might fall off and its better to be safe. If like me, you are a road cyclist and are in two minds about a mountain bike holiday I would say don't hesitate. There are plenty of hills were you can leave the mountain bikers behind as well as certain stretches covered by road. The mountain biking will improve your bike handling skills, as well as improve your fitness as you power your way up some challenging rocky up hill climbs. Its all worth if for the stunning descent !
