The twelfth edition of the Tour of Menorca will take place on October 19-21, offering riders a last-ditch opportunity to bag a final sportive in the sun before the onset of winter.

“If you’ve never ridden a sportive in the Balearic Islands then you are in for a treat,” the organisers told us.

“With a rolling road closure, fantastic feed stops, police escort, medical back up, mechanical back up on route and a broom wagon, and very friendly local riders, this is an excellent way to wind down for the winter.”

The three-day event begins with a short 45km ride on the Friday afternoon to the Arturo Sintes Cycle Museum
in Es Mercadal to spin the legs. After some wine and cheese and a chance to look round the museum, it’s back to Mahon for the rider presentation and Menorcan buffet.

Saturday is the longest stage with a 112km route across the length of island to the second city of Cuitadella where lunch is provided in the main square before taking a different route back to the capital.

Sunday is the most challenging day as, although the route is only 62km in length, it takes in the highest point in the island at Monte Toro; a three kilometre climb averaging more than eight per cent. There will be prizes for first three male and female riders to the top and any local professionals who ride the sportive are not allowed to compete for this prize but are more than happy to tow anyone to the top.

The rider party on Sunday afternoon sees the prize presentation for the day and also for the Balearic Challenge series overall, with the organisers promising a typically Spanish party atmosphere. The total cost for the three-day Tour of Menorca is €55, with the option of bringing non-riding partners to the rider party on Sunday for an extra supplement.

Bikes can be hired for the event in advance from Pro Cycle Hire, and the bikes will be waiting for you on Friday afternoon and collected at the rider party on Sunday afternoon. Hire prices start at €50 for a carbon framed bike with Shimano 105 for the entire weekend and are supplied with bottles and tool kit, so all you need to do is bring your own pedals, shoes and helmet.

For more information on bike hire contact [email protected] or visit www.menorcacicloturista.com/vuelta-a-menorca to enter the Tour of Menorca sportive.