Follow in Cavendish’s tracks with a cycling break to the Isle of Man

Although it may be commonly perceived as a laid back Isle, the dramatic coastal cliffs and rolling hills of the Isle of Man do in fact make it the perfect destination for a sport-filled adventure break.  Home and training ground of champion cyclist, Mark Cavendish, and host this September to the Commonwealth Youth Games, the Island is set to see a dramatic increase in its number of sporty visitors. 

However, you do not need to be one of these top-ranked athletes to follow in the tracks of the Isle of Man’s famous Tour de France stages winner as the multitude of cycling paths that traverse the Island’s varied terrain range in levels of difficulty from advanced to beginner.

Commonwealth Youth Games supporter and  Isle of Man native, Mark Cavendish says, “Having grown up on the Isle of Man and trained here for many years, I am very familiar with the Island’s beautiful landscapes. It’s the perfect place for me to train and I enjoy joining the Island’s cycling club to ride the vast TT roads and the challenging coastline paths. We are all very excited to be holding the Commonwealth Youth Games here in September and to have our own Manx athletes competing in the sports events.”

Already following Cavendish’s lead is Thomas Mazzone, one of over 30 young Manx residents taking part and a future cycling hopeful for the Island,  “I’ve been training really hard especially since school finished in preparation for the upcoming Games. When Mark Cavendish is not competing in foreign countries and winning competitions I have been lucky enough to cycle with him and get a few tips. I hope they come in useful and I do the Island proud in September.”

During the Commonwealth Youth Games not only will his Royal Highness, The Earl of Wessex, Vice Patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation be in attendance at the Opening Ceremony celebrations on the 8th September, but a two day festival is also being held to welcome the influx of future sporting stars to the Island.

The Island offers beautiful vistas, rugged coastlines, and open spaces not found in many other parts of the UK and those prepared to take on more challenging routes are rewarded with breathtaking views. Mountain biking is not the only option for fitness fanatics, as the Isle of Man is brilliant for a host of activities sure to satisfy thrill-seekers. Take advantage of the miles of coastline with Coasteering, following a route along the rocky shore close to the sea, climbing along rocks and swimming between sections.

Gorge scrambling allows you to see some of the Island’s most beautiful waterfalls, rivers and pools from the most absurd angles, as you scuttle your way either up or down a mountain river course. Surrounded by the noise and angry energy of fast-flowing water, you can jump across boulders, traverse along rock walls, following a route under the guidance of highly experienced coaches.

Take to the seas in a kayak to visit secret places normally inaccessible. Gaze at the spectacular sea cliffs and observe the seals, porpoises and wildlife unobtrusively whilst looking out for the Basking Sharks feeding on route. So why not think about booking a trip this autumn to get active and enjoy a healthy, outdoor break on the Isle of Man.

Cycle hire starts from just £14 per day – for further information, visit iomcyclehire.co.uk