Life

Outdoors: Get on your bike with cycling fest and Fermanagh tour

This is Gran Fondo weekend – the event starts off in Titanic Quarter
This is Gran Fondo weekend – the event starts off in Titanic Quarter This is Gran Fondo weekend – the event starts off in Titanic Quarter

BELFAST is all geared up for the Northern Ireland festival of cycling which runs until Sunday June 19. A range of events are taking place to celebrate this year's Gran Fondo – a spin-off from the Giro d'Italia, which started in the city in 2014 – today and tomorrow.

Everyone is encouraged to take to their bikes there'll be family friendly events in the city's parks, the most intriguing-sounding of which is the Slow Bike Race which takes place on Thursday at 5pm in the grounds of Belfast City Hall.

Other events include a night ride and barbecue from 9.30pm to 10.30pm on June 15 in Belfast city centre, while there's Bike Polo in Ormeau Park from 6pm to 7.30pm on June 17.

:: For more details of the bike fest head to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events/Event-66483.aspx

IF YOU seek a better quality of fresh air, the 2016 Tour of Fermanagh annual charity cycle takes place today. Now in its fourth year, this year's proceeds go to the Oisín McGrath Foundation.

The cycle is aimed at all levels of cyclist, from relative newcomers to endurance athletes. Three routes cater for cyclists of all abilities and fitness levels while showcasing the beautiful scenery of Co Fermanagh, organisers say.

The easy 60km route is a scenic but relatively flat tour of the Fermanagh Lakelands and will provide an enjoyable challenge for novices, while a 100km route is aimed at more experienced road cyclists and takes in some more rugged countryside with challenging ascents, fast descents and stunning panoramic views.

A 150k Sportive course will satisfy experienced cyclists looking to test their endurance, completing a demanding course which includes the notorious climb over Carnmore Viewpoint.

The event starts and finishes in Lisnaskea and is hosted by Lisnaskea Emmetts GAC and Clones Cycling Club. Motorcycle outriders from the Mad Dog Motorcycle Club will be marshalling. If not riding, go down and give some support. Entry is £20.

:: facebook.com/fermanaghcycletour.