Sportive riders can share the roads of Thailand with legendary Irishman Sean Kelly at the second annual SpiceRoads Cycle Tours Sean Kelly Bangkok to Phuket ride next February.

Taking place from February 13 to February 22, the nine-day ride – which is strictly limited to 30 participants – covers 924 kilometres in total, ending on the Mai Khao beach resort on Phuket.

Rolling out of the Thai capital, the Tour takes in the picturesque surroundings of the South East Asian country, including its golden beaches and Buddhist temples, and tackles 6,214 metres of elevation.

The ride also takes in Khao Sok, against the backdrop of the karst cliffs, Khao Lak and cross to Phuket by bridge.

And Kelly, 58, who now commentates for Eurosport, will join riders on the route having enjoyed his first Thai ride earlier this year.

He said: “There was no enjoying the scenery when I was racing, but now that I have retired it is good to be able to take it more easily and enjoy the ride.

“When you do rides like this you can look around and see the countryside. When you are competing you don’t get the occasion to see the countryside – when you are racing it is not for pleasure.”

Costing US$3,000, the Ride is fully-supported with air-conditioned vehicles, water, sports drinks and snacks provided during the ride.

Participants can also hire Trek bikes – the Domane 2.3 costing $250 for the ride or the Emonda S5, costing $350 to hire – or ride on their own trusty steeds.

The Tour price also includes airport pick-up and drop-off, accommodation for nine nights, meals and a Sean Kelly Tour cycling jersey and shorts.

All rides are led by experienced, English-speaking cycle guides, as with all of Bangkok-based SpiceRoads cycling excursions.

For more information on the Tour, or for more of SpiceRoads’ Cycle Tours, visit their website.