Strada Piccole - March Social Ride

The Strada Piccole is our 100km tribute to the great Italian classic one-day race the Strada Bianche. Whilst we cannot match the white gravel roads on Tuscany, we do have a great route to get you off the beaten track & onto the droves & back lanes that criss-cross The Levels, before returning to catch the closing stages of the Strada Bianchi live at the Archive Store.

Starting at The Archive Store the route, put together by RCC Member Chris Cottrell, heads west through Wells & out to the Isle of Wedmore where there in a chance for an early stop at The Swan Wedmore. Continue through Blackford, Mark & Rooks Bridge towards the climb of Shiplate Road & the most northerly point in Bleadon & the 2nd stop opportunity at Bleqadon Country Store. From here we turn south, briefly taking the National Cycle Network Route 33, before circumventing Brent Knoll & heading east back onto The Levels. The final chance to refuel is at Sweets Tea Rooms & Museum 75kms in before returning to the Rapha Store via Glastonbury.

A total distance of just over 100kms & only 500m of climbing sounds relatively benign, however if the wind blows it could make for a tougher day than anticipated. The majority of the route follows the back lanes & droves of the Somerset Levels so expect potholes, mud & other debris. We have therefore classified the ride as "Intermediate".

Stop options at: - The Swan Wedmore @ 25kms - Bleadon Country Store @ 50kms - Sweets Tea Rooms @75kms

This is an open ride so download the route & ride it at your own pace returning to the Archive Store to catch the final stages of the Strada Bianchi. Route - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/29374055

If you'd like to join our led ride, leaving from the Archive Store at 9.30am, please sign-up here. Coffees will be available from 9am at Kilver Court, with free parking on-site.

Tickets

Additional Information

Distance: Planned route of approximately 100km with 500m of climbing. Speed: Approx 22-26km/h Route: Quiet A/B roads, lanes & tracks, however there may be occasions where the group rides on busier roads. Who: This ride is open to anybody however a good level of fitness & previous experience of riding in a group would be advantageous. All riders must wear a helmet. Timings: Meet at the Archive Store from 9.00am for a 9.30am prompt depart.