Ricky's Coast to Coast
 

Watching hundreds of coast to coast-ers begin their journey by dipping their wheels in the water right outside of Zest Harbourside inspired Ricky to make the classic bike trip himself.

Being a keen cyclist anyway and with the advice of one of our chefs (big John - if you see him, you'll understand the name) Ricky felt it rude not to bite the bullet and do it.
Now, back in the day, Ricky would have thought nothing of sleeping in a field and cooking up a tin of beans over a camp fire.  However, due to his advancing years (nearly the big 4-0) and a taste for the finer things in life, he decided to stay in style and rest his aching limbs (and posterior) in comfortable and pleasant surroundings.

The first night was spent at The North Lakes hotel in Penrith that, funnily enough, has a swimming pool and spa.  The second was a wonderful place called Horsley hall.
This is a delightful, family run hotel which has the emphasis on personal friendly service. 
The surroundings and decor are fabulous and it's great to be able to rest your bones next to a roaring fire at the end of a hard days riding.
They serve great food too, which is a bonus.

All in all it was a great trip to experience with friends.  Amazing scenery enjoyed with great camaraderie as you meet fellow c2c-ers along the way.
Plus you are spurred on with the support and encouragement from all of the people you meet (either taking part, or just watching you go by).
For Ricky, the down hills were truly amazing....but we won't mention the up hills.