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Gran Fondo Cyprus 2023 - Prices from £449.00pp

Gran Fondo Cyprus 2023

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£449.00
deposit per person
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Based on a total price of £449.00 per person
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Your Experience

The Gran Fondo Cyprus offers early season riding in one of Europe's best cycling locations. Take part in this 3 day Gran Fondo with 3 varied stages on Friday 31 March, Saturday 1 April and Sunday 2 April 2023.

The Gran Fondo Cyprus is a qualifying event for the 2023 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Glasgow held in August 2023. By the end of each stage of the race, the first 20% athletes of each Age Category from a Combined Classification of the EXPERT and SPORTIVE Groups will be awarded with guaranteed entry to the Gran Fondo World Championships in Glasgow and be able to race for the World Champion title and the Rainbow Jersey.

Starting every day next to the Mediterranean coast, climbing some of the nicest mountains of the island and passing through many traditional villages, it offers the participants an unforgettable experience. It is this compactness of Cyprus that gives a unique experience to a cyclist who wants to have everything in just one ride! We will give you this experience every day, for three consecutive days!

Sportive and Expert groups

The EXPERT group is aimed at riders who - beyond the participation – are looking to measure up their best performance against other riders who share the same goals.

The SPORTIVE group appeals to any rider who through their participation in this event are looking to experience the wonderful Cyprus nature in spring, explore new places and new destinations in Cyprus, socialize with other cyclists and to share their passion for cycling with hundreds of other cycling enthusiasts. Participants in the Sportive group still be timed at the finish line of each route and will be included at the award ceremonies for each stage.

Sportive Group

  • Stage 1 on Friday 31 March – 54km/ 780m ascent
  • Stage 2 on Saturday 1 April – 96km/ 1600m ascent
  • Stage 3 on Sunday 2 April – 54km/ 1435 ascent

Expert Group

  • Stage 1 on Friday 31 March – 20.6km/240m ascent ITT
  • Stage 2 on Saturday 1 April – 96km/ 1600m ascent
  • Stage 3 on Sunday 2 April – 54km/ 1435 ascent

Our travel package to the 2023 Gran Fondo Cyprus is for 4 nights (Thu - Sun) and offers the choice of 3 hotels in Paphos. All hotels are in a great location for the 3 stages of the Gran Fondo.

Hotel Aliathon - SOLD OUT

£359 per person based on 2 people sharing a twin or double room

£120 supplement per person based on sole use of a room

Hotel Amphora and Suites - SOLD OUT

£409 per person based on 2 people sharing a twin or double room

£95 supplement per person based on sole use of a room

Hotel Athena Beach

£449 per person based on 2 people sharing a twin or double room

£105 supplement per person based on sole use of a room

Included with all packages:

  • Meet and greet at the airport
  • Return airport transfers to/ from your hotel
  • Choice of 4* hotels in Paphos
  • Half Board catering (Breakfast & Dinner)
  • Collection and delivery of race number/goody bag
  • Race and course briefing
  • Pasta Party Dinner in Hotel
  • Early morning breakfast on race day
  • Dedicated recovery tent
  • Free downloadable group photos
  • Local expertise and customised advice on Paphos activities & sightseeing
  • ABTA protected

Also available at a supplement

  • Guaranteed entry to the 2023 Gran Fondo Cyprus at £300, which includes:
    • Race Entry for all stages
    • UCI Gran Fondo World Championships Qualification
    • Bike and Bib numbers
    • Electronic Timing and Live Results
    • Digital Maps and GPX files
    • Technical assistance during the race
    • Medical assistance during the race
    • Feed stations with fruits, water and electrolytes
    • Route signage and safety
    • Opening ceremony pasta party
    • Lunch reception after last stage
    • Finisher’s medal
    • Goody bag
    • Commemorative T-shirt
    • Energy bars/gels
    • Sticker profile graphs
  • Bike rental from £120 for 4 days - see below

Available bikes

  • Canyon Endurace CF 7.0 at £120 for 4 days
  • Canyon Endurace CF 7.0 Disc at £140 for 4 days
Your Itinerary

Thursday 30th March 2023: Travel to Cyprus

Please make your own arrangements to arrive at your chosen hotel or meet us at Paphos Airport. We will run several airport transfers throughout the day. Please allow an hour from your flight landing time to your transfer time, to allow you to get through passport control and collect your luggage. The transfer takes approximately 15 – 30 minutes depending on traffic.

What about my bike?

You can bring your own bike as we have planned to transport bike boxes on our airport transfers. Alternatively, you can rent a bike with us for the weekend. Our mechanic will be available this afternoon at the hotel to assist you with fitting your rental bike. Bikes can be safely stored at the hotel.

Our Hotel

You can choose to stay at 1 of 3 different hotels. Our hotels are all located within minutes of the start of both stages of the Cyprus Gran Fondo. The hotel is booked on a Half Board basis, with breakfasts and evening meals included. You will also have free access to the secure bike store.

Friday 31st March 2023 : Stage 1 and ITT

Breakfast followed by Stage 1 for the Sportive riders and the ITT for the Expert riders.

09:30 Start of Stage 1 for the SPORTIVE/ Start Area at Pafos Castle

11:00 Start of Stage 1 for the EXPERT*/ Start at Kouklia Village

*  For the ITT the final start list will be announced the night before and riders must be present at the start line 15 mins before their starting time.

18:00 Award ceremony for Stage 1 at Annabelle Ballroom, Annabelle Hotel

This afternoon you are free to enjoy the hotel’s facilities and we will have the evening meal together at the hotel.

Saturday 1st April 2023 : Stage 2

09:20 Start of Stage 2 for the EXPERT/ Start Area at Pafos Castle

09:25 Start of Stage 2 for the SPORTIVE/ Start Area at Pafos Castle

18:00 Award ceremony for Stage 2 at Annabelle Ballroom, Annabelle Hotel

Sunday 2nd April 2023 : Stage 3

08:20 Start of Stage 3 for the EXPERT/ Start Area at Pafos Castle

08:25 Start of Stage 3 for the SPORTIVE/ Start Area at Pafos Castle

15:00 Light meal and award ceremony for Stage 3 and general classification at Pafos Castle (subject to change according to weather conditions)

All riders who qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships will receive a qualification medal at the award ceremony after each stage. All participants of the Cyprus Gran Fondo will receive a finisher’s medal at the finish line of Stage 3.

Monday 3rd April 2023 : Departure

Throughout the day airport transfers are available in line with your flight departure time.

Need to Know

How to book

Please make your booking by clicking on the orange button at the top of the page. Please ensure that you select the correct room type for all members in your party plus all the required extras. When you book, we will require a deposit to confirm your place.

Travel advice

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Cyprus’s current entry restrictions and requirements.

Medical certificate

Please note you do not need a medical certificate to take part in the Gran Fondo Cyprus.

Travel Insurance

For details of specialist sports travel insurance for our travel packages, please visit our insurance page. You must ensure that your travel insurance policy covers you to participate in cycling events in Cyprus. Please remember to insure your bike for foreign travel.

Qualification for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Glasgow

Each UGFWS event will grant participation rights for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. By the end of each race, the first 20% athletes of each Age Category from a Combined Classification of the EXPERT and SPORTIVE Groups will be awarded with guaranteed entry to the Gran Fondo World Championships and be able to race for the World Champion title.

The first day will give you the chance to qualify for the Individual Time Trial World Championships whereas the following two days will give you two separate chances (one in every stage) to qualify for the Road Race World Championships. Riders with UCI points are not eligible to qualify.

On Stage 1, riders in the EXPERT group will have to compete in an Individual Time Trial and the first 20% athletes of each age category will be qualified to the Individual Time Trial World Championships, whereas riders in the SPORTIVE group will race in a road race with no qualification.

On Stage 2 and 3, the road race will be the same for the EXPERT and SPORTIVE Groups and by the end of each race, the first 20% athletes of each age category from a combined classification of the EXPERT and SPORTIVE groups will be qualified to the Road Race World Championships. So this give you two separate chances (one in every stage). Riders with UCI points are not eligible to qualify.

The first three riders of each Age Category of the combined classification will always qualify directly for the World Championships, independent of the number of starters in that age group. Riders have to finish the race to be qualified. The 20% is calculated based on the number of starters, not on the number of finished riders. The winners of the slots will be announced on the UCI Gran Fondo World Series website and will be invited by e-mail.

You can find all the information regarding the UGFWS Qualification regulations on the official website.

Venue

What makes Cyprus such a great place for spring cycling? The road surfaces are as good as Mallorca but with almost no traffic. The terrain is mixed with long climbs, rolling hills and flat rides by the coast. And of course this is one of the warmest climates in Europe with temperatures in the low 20s from Feb and 325 sunny days per year.

By Plane

Paphos airport is well served by international airlines. Rent a car at the airport or take our airport transfer.

Need to Know

Timing Chips

During race bag collection you will receive your individual timing chip. The details of a credit/debit card will be required as safety deposit for the chip. You will be responsible to return it at the finish line of Stage 3 or sooner if you will take part only in Stages 1 and 2. In case that the chip is not returned immediately after your race is finished, you are liable to a charge of €100 to your credit card

Age Categories

Junior Men/Women 16-18 yrs

Men/Women 19-19 yrs

Men/Women 30-34 yrs

Men/Women 35-39 yrs

Men/Women 40-44 yrs

Men/Women 45-49 yrs

Men/Women 50-54 yrs

Men/Women 55-59 yrs

Men/Women 60-64 yrs

Men/Women 65-69 yrs

Men/Women 70-74 yrs

Men/Women 75+ yrs

Team Classifications

There are 3 team classifications - MEN, WOMEN and MIXED Team Classification. To be eligible the team needs to be between 3-8 riders from the EXPERT Group only The Team Ranking is calculated based on the TOTAL TIME of the 3 stages (i.e. General Classification Time) of the top 3 riders of the team.

Rider A: Time of Stage 1 (ITT) + Time of Stage 2 + Time of Stage 3

Rider B: Time of Stage 1 (ITT) + Time of Stage 2 + Time of Stage 3

Rider C: Time of Stage 1 (ITT) + Time of Stage 2 + Time of Stage 3

In the mixed classification, the time of at least one man and one woman needs to be included in the calculation of the team total time. If a member does not start or does not finish on of the stages, they are excluded from the general classification and therefore from the team classification.

Signing and Marshalling

The route will be signed and it is your obligation to know and follow the route. Signing of the courses will be marked by Arrows on the asphalt as well as signs posted on the side of the road will show the racecourse. Marshals will be available to guide the cyclists in key locations. Where there are no marshals, please follow the signs. Riding outside the route will result in a penalty. There will also be signs for the distance remaining to the Finish Line as follows: 50km, 40km, 30km, 20km,10km, 5km, 1km, 500m, 300m, 100m.

Motorbike Marshalls

The "MOTOLIFE Tours" team is supporting the tour for 6 years now. Riding along the cyclists with their Harley Davidsons noy only keeps a high level of safety for the cyclists, but also gives a different "color" to the race! Help them so they can help us have a safe race

Medical Support

An ambulance and doctor will follow the race. In case of emergency contact the organisers providing your name, your bib number and location (distance from start or name of nearby village).

Neutral Service

There will be neutral service along the race route in cars carrying spare tubes, pumps, and tools.

Traffic Rules

In Cyprus traffic drives on the left. The entire bike course is open to ordinary traffic. There will be motorbikes, service/organisers cars as well as safety personnel to guide the athletes to follow the route. They will also ensure that the athletes follow all the traffic and race rules.The following violations may lead to time penalties and/or disqualification:

  • Violating traffic regulations (the highway code)
  • Obstructing traffic by not holding to the left side
  • Dangerous driving
  • Use of headsets or mobile phones while on the bike
  • Drafting on a motor vehicle
  • Passing the commissaire’s car without permission

Road Safety

The entire bike course is open to ordinary traffic. The traffic will be regulated by the police and marshals along the route. Riders are required to follow the traffic regulations during the warm-up and the race. Any guidance from the police and the marshals along the route simple provide ease of passage and greater safety for the riders and the drivers

ROAD RACE RULES

Types of Bicycle

Only road bikes allowed according to the UCI regulations, without handlebar extensions. There will be no limitations on the gear ratio for Junior Categories.

Support Cars & Personnel

Support cars will be allowed for riders in teams of six (6) riders or more in the EXPERT Group ONLY. The support cars must follow the rules and obey any indications by the race officials. Riders of teams with support cars that do not follow the rules will be penalized with time penalties.

  • Support vehicles must all the time be behind the commissaires’ car unless the commissaire allows any cars to pass!
  • All support personnel must attend the race briefing on zoom (date and time TBA).
  • The support team must be able to communicate with the race organisers in English or Greek
  • The support vehicle must abide by traffic regulations and posted speed limits and never drive directly behind or in front of a cyclist, as this could cause dangerous situations
  • All support cars must follow the instructions of the marshals to guide them to the car park before the finish line. No support car is allowed at the finish line. Support cars must exit the race route at the designated area before the finish line.
  • Passing of riders who are competing must always be done following all safety measures and traffic rules.

Support vehicles must be registered before the race at info@activatecyprus.com stating the name of the driver, license plate and phone number. Support drivers must pick up their support car stickers during Race Number collection and stick one on the front and on the back windshield of their car. Never put yourself and others in danger for any reason!

Feeding Zones

There will be enough Feeding Zones along the race courses. They are set up in every stage and they are signed. They will also be mentioned in the maps of the event. At all feed zones there will be water to fill up your water bottles, fruits (bananas and oranges) and carbohydrates to put in your water.

Feeding and Technical Support

  • Feeding can only be provided only near the designated feed zone areas. Feeding from the support car is strictly prohibited. Support cars must park the car safely and with all four wheels outside the road line and provide feeding to their athletes at the designated feed zones or near the feed zones, (100 meters before or after), at a location where there is clear visibility for the athletes and for other traffic passing from the route.
  • We strongly recommend that personnel that will take care of the team’s feeding at the feeding stations, should use a different route that the race route. Overpassing the riders during the race to reach the feeding stations cannot be guaranteed. View the locations of the Feed Zones HERE
  • There will be neutral service cars to provide technical support for the athletes (spare tubes, pump, and tools) or any other technical assistance that might be needed during the race. The personnel in the neutral service cars will try to fix a technical issue if it does not require that amount of time that will disturb the smooth supervision of the race
  • Technical support is allowed on the entire route (except last 3km). Support cars that need to provide technical assistance must park the car safely and with all four wheels outside the road

Bike Rental

If you choose to hire a bike through us, your bike rental includes :

  • two bottle holders (no bottles)
  • 3 spare tubes (€6 each if used)
  • a hand pump
  • tire lever
Location

Cyprus is blessed with a blend of unsurpassed attractions combined with a laid back way of life that is sure to relax and invigorate.

Bask in year-round sunshine, with stretches of long sandy shores, pebbled coves and rocky outlets lapping the crystal clear, warm Mediterranean Sea. Take to the seas with a refreshing array of water sports, or set sail to the Middle East and Greek Islands.

Meander through innumerable mountainous villages, where local handicrafts and traditional practices provide vivid rural snapshots. Set your own pace whilst exploring the intoxicating landscape of scented pine forests, valleys brimming with citrus and olive groves, majestic snow capped mountains and dramatic limestone cliffs. Revel in the unrivalled natural beauty of the Akamas nature reserve and Troodos mountains by jeep safari, hiking or mountain biking, or for the ultimate comparison why not ski and swim on the same day!

Taste the finest wines and sensuous cuisine, or step back in time by delving into 10,000 years of captivating history. At night, escape into the zesty, cosmopolitan nightlife scene, or simply relax with a sunset cocktail by the beach.

Family fun in the sun, romantic breaks, much needed R&R or active island pursuits - Cyprus offers it all, with a warm Mediterranean welcome wishing you many a happy return.

Topography

The varied inland terrain comprises flat, lush valleys, hilly pine forests and impressive mountain ranges. A coastline measuring over 650 kilometres boasts 52 Blue Flag beaches, with a mix of secluded and facilitated beaches catering for every beach lover’s taste.

Weather

Some 340 days of sunshine a year bless Cyprus, with long summer months that seem to never end. Autumn brings sporadic storms but typically warm temperatures. The chillier winter months are exceptionally short compared to the UK. A good enough snow covering on the highest peaks affords good skiing opportunities, with spring blooming sometimes as early as February.

Travel

Sea ports: Limassol and Larnaca.

Limassol is the main trading port, whilst both ports offer cruises to Syria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon and the Greek Islands.

International airports: Paphos in the southwest and Larnaca in the southeast are both undergoing expansion, promising vastly increased capacity. Both airports offer frequent flights. Prices vary depending on the time of year, with the low cost airline EasyJet having commenced flights in spring 2008

Driving: All major towns are connected by highway. A new highway is also planned between Paphos and Polis.

Taxis: Private taxis are readily available all over the island, and taxi minibus services provide transportation between major towns.

Car Hire: There are numerous international rental car offices in every town, with prices structured according to the season.

Culture

Famed as the island of Aphrodite, goddess of love, Cyprus’ mythological magic is accompanied by a tumultuous history spanning 10,000 years, with the Hellenic, Ottoman, Byzantine and Roman eras all leaving their traces behind. Today, this peaceful, welcoming country is an international melting pot of culture.

The island’s rich hospitality serves as a major attraction for returning holidaymakers. As an incredibly family-oriented country where traditional values thrive, the island is an ideal place to raise a family and enjoy a peaceful, integrated lifestyle. The crime rate is exceptionally low with no vandalism. Pollution and traffic congestion are at a minimum, delivering a breath of fresh air in every respect.

Rural life provides the ultimate community experience, where everyone knows one another and help is always at hand. In these country settings, authentic stone homes accompanied by pretty courtyard walls overflowing with vibrant flowers instil a sense of harmony between man and nature. The sight of handicrafts, local produce and wine making provide a nostalgic reminder of days gone by, at the same time offering a scenic escape from the contemporary coastal towns.

Yet even the modern towns and cities boast more than their fair share of culture. Picturesque old towns with their winding cobbled streets and striking architecture, compare to bustling tourist areas and popular markets. Combining ancient sites with modern entertainment, the Roman amphitheatres in Paphos and Episkopi, and the ancient castle in Paphos, are also the venue for live theatrical and musical performances. Add to this the well scheduled events calendar island-wide, which ranges from musical performances, wine festivals, seasonal fairs and harvest celebrations, and it’s easy to see how the integrated culture offers just as much allure as the island’s beach life.

Enjoy Cyprus

The beach is the ultimate draw for many newcomers to the island, yet the wide range of hobbies and activities encourage a healthy, well rounded lifestyle.

Family Fun: Visit the water parks, bird and reptile parks, or go horse riding and go-karting.

Water sports: Try your hand at para-sailing, water-skiing, kayaking and canoeing, banana and tube rides, sailing and windsurfing, with boat and jet-ski hire available for over 18-year-olds with a driving license.

Scuba diving: Explore shipwrecks and archeological treasures amidst the kaleidoscopic marine life, or if you are not yet qualified, there are courses available for all ages and abilities.

Golf: Three currently operating 18-hole golf courses are within half an hour’s drive from Paphos, with a further 11 planned.

Skiing: There are four ski lifts at Mount Olympus in the Troodos mountains, open between January and March.

Walking and mountain biking: 200 kilometres of designated nature trails offer a mixture of challenging and easy going routes for hiking and mountain biking to suit every age and ability. The mix of shady and sun-drenched areas means that you can time excursions to make the very best of the island’s seasonal diversity and varied temperatures. Alternatively, take a jeep safari which affords more extensive trips in the Troodos mountain range and Akamas nature reserve.

Shopping

Cosmopolitan cities offer an enticing mix of designer shops and international brand names. For those seeking a more local shopping experience, the local markets and rural villages are a hub for traditional wares including lacework, weaving, jewelery and pottery.

Nightlife

Cyprus offers a diverse range of nightlife entertainment options. Choose from:

  • Live Greek music nights whilst enjoying a lavish mezze spread
  • Lively bars and clubs in the popular tourist areas
  • Operatic, contemporary music, theatrical performances and folklore shows
  • Pop into one of the many 5-star hotels to enjoy fine dining or a sunset cocktail

Cuisine

Cypriot cuisine is one of the healthiest in the world, thanks to the abundance of fresh local produce. Fresh salads, seafood and fruit are a must during the hot summer months, with local meat dishes such as moussaka, afelia, stifado and the never ending courses of the famous mezze providing hearty meals year round. Dining out options are vast and varied, from inexpensive local tavernas to upmarket international establishments.

Healthcare

Healthcare standards on the island are very high. Emergency treatment is free. Hospitals and clinics are well equipped with the latest technology, with the majority of doctors and dentists being trained in either the UK or the United States. In addition, there are numerous pharmacies in every town offering non-prescription medicine.

Education

State schools offer a very high educational standard, with the accompanying benefits of foreign children quickly becoming bi-lingual. There is also an excellent selection of private schools with admirable facilities and exam results.

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Prices from £449.00pp

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Gran Fondo Cyprus 2023

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