A time trial around North Wales’ iconic Great Orme headland has been added to the inaugural Gran Fondo Conwy, due to take place on Sunday April 27.

The ‘Storm the Orme’ – Gwibdaith y Gogarth to the locals – offers riders on the sportive the chance to test themselves against the clock on closed roads.

And with 300 riders already signed up for the first event, organisers hope they will be able to attract more than double that by the time the sportive arrives.

Rob Samuel, event manager, said: “Based on the popularity of the Gran Fondo Conwy so far we are set to reach the 800 mark, which is a fantastic achievement for a brand new event.

“The time trial section is going to be brilliant. The Gran Fondo Conwy routes are truly beautiful and the cyclists are sure to have a great time.

“The ‘Storm the Orme’ time trial gives the event a competitive element but there is no pressure for people to go full pelt if they don’t want to – they can just sit back and enjoy the incredible views over the Irish Sea.”

Setting off from Conway Castle, the Gran Fondo will take in some of Conwy and Denbighshire’s best climbs and most picturesque roads.

Four routes are available, with the Mawr at 104 miles, the Canol at 70 miles and the Bach at 42 miles, as well as a free, four-mile family ride, the Gran Fondo Teulu, on closed roads. With the exception of the Gran Fondo Teulu, the routes take in landmarks including the historic town of Denbigh, the Llanrwst Bridge and the Llyn Brenig. Parts of the Canol and Mawr routes also take in the same roads used last year for the Tour of Britain.

For more information, or to enter the sportive, visit the Gran Fondo Conwy website.