48 | Cycling World
Behind you, a sea of blue.
Ahead, miles of empty road.
Your heart pounds. Muscles flex. Gulls cry.
Soon, you’ll reach the top;
the whole island will be at your feet.
The others are about to catch up -
but right now, you’re alone.
You pause, take in the view,
and think back to yesterday.
How you raced each other down twisting country lanes,
rode all the way down to the sea,
and drank real Manx ale with the locals.
How the steam railway chugged overhead,
as you climbed from Port Soderick.
The island has got under your skin.
The others are close now.
Savour this moment a while longer:
feel the sun on your back
and let the sea breeze fill your lungs.
Soon, you’ll board the ferry,
bikes, car and friends in tow,
and slowly remember what life was like before.
Until then, clip back in. Go.
Think of the stories you’ll tell.
Pack more in - travel by ferry
Car + two adults from £100* each way
Create a holiday you’ll never forget, when you travel by ferry to the
Isle of Man. With no luggage fees, bikes travel for free and you’re
able to bring whatever you need for the perfect cycling break.
Book NOW at STEAM-PACKET.COM
BELFAST
ISLE OF MAN
DUBLIN
HEYSHAM
LIVERPOOL
Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. A combination of ports should be considered. *Valid for travel from 13/06/17-04/09/17. Journeys must be completed within five days – day of outward sailing counts as
day one. Return sailing must commence on or before day five. For payment by credit card, a fee of £3 applies per transaction, not per person. Main image: Courtesy of Isle of Man Cycle Challenge