Purple House Back In The Saddle

Reach for the top…

ith each passing year, the Purple House Coast2Coast challenge is getting a little longer, tougher and a little more saddle sore.

In 2022, we’re talking 130km per day, in the blistering heat, as the 30 hearty volunteers cycle from the Atlantic all the way over to the Mediterranean, whilst in 2024, it was five days across Croatia, followed by last year’s cycle from Santander to Santiago.

And for 2026, it’s Madrid to Bilbao at the start of June.

Here’s the lowdown…

Adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a meaningful cause come together for the 2026 Purple House Cycle Challenge, taking place from Sunday, June 7th to Saturday 13th.

On June 7th, it’s a direct Ryanair flight departing Dublin at 8am, arriving in Madrid at 1pm, followed by a short transfer to your city hotel before beginning your Spanish adventure.

Madrid is a city of elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks like the famous Buen Retiro. It boasts world-class art museums, phenomenal cuisine, and Europe’s largest royal palace. Yet, what truly sets Madrid apart is its warm, inclusive atmosphere—a vibrant blend of history, culture, and charm waiting to be explored.

On June 8th, it’s Madrid to Segovia (101kms/1404m), Madrid’s most famous route, the Anillo Verde Ciclista, forming a scenic loop around the city and providing the perfect starting point for our journey.

From Casa de Campo Park, we head north to connect with the Senda Real, a long-distance, paved bike path that leads toward the edge of the Cuenca Alta del Manzanares Regional Park. This stunning park is a natural haven, featuring dramatic granite rock formations and fragrant pine forests, home to Iberian ibex, wild boar, and soaring birds of prey.

Our destination is Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its iconic Roman aqueduct, imposing medieval castle, and magnificent Gothic cathedral—a true step back in time.

Day 3 is Segovia to Penafiel – (114km/872m) or (143km/1441m) – beginning across the vast plains of Castille, where endless horizons stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, the landscape is dotted with charming historic villages like Turégano, crowned by its striking medieval castle.

The highlight of the day is the breathtaking Parque Hoces del Río Duratón, a dramatic canyon carved by the River Duratón. This natural wonder is home to Europe’s largest colony of griffon vultures — an unforgettable sight soaring above the cliffs.

Our destination is Peñafiel, a town steeped in history, fortified in 1307 and dominated by its iconic hilltop castle. Beyond its medieval charm, Peñafiel is at the heart of wine country, boasting a provincial wine museum for those eager to explore the region’s rich viticulture.

Optional Extra: Extend your route and ride a wider loop to visit the enchanting mountain villages of Pedraza and Sepúlveda.

Pedraza, often used as a medieval film set, is a perfectly preserved gem, while Sepúlveda offers timeless beauty and cobbled streets—a true journey back in time.

And that’s just the half of it. You can find out more about the entire journey right here, where you can also register.

What’s Included:

Participants will enjoy six nights of accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels, all meals, support from experienced cycling guides, snacks, and a fully equipped support vehicle. All bike transfers, set airport transfers, and meticulously researched routes are included.

Cycle to Care:
As part of this unique experience, participants will also raise funds for Purple House Cancer Support. All proceeds will go towards providing essential services to families affected by cancer, such as counselling, family and child programmes, complimentary therapies, cancer rehab physiotherapy, survivorship programmes and practical support.

Registration:
Register here or call Natasha Quinn on 012866966. Places are limited, so early booking is advised. There will be an information evening at their Bray HQ on Thursday, January 29th from 7pm.

Join the Journey:
Cycling enthusiasts, adventurers, and supporters of this vital cause are encouraged to join the 2026 Purple House Cycle Challenge. Not only will you experience the adventure of a lifetime, but you’ll also make a lasting impact on families in need of support.

And joining us on the cycle as official ambassador is Irish cycling legend Nicholas Roche, who says, “My brother Florian had cancer, and I witnessed up close how deeply it shook our family. That experience never leaves you. No family should have to face those moments feeling isolated or unsupported.

“By taking part, you’ll be helping Purple House to provide counselling, therapies, and comfort to those who need it most. Together, we can make sure that no family walks this road alone.
Join us and make a difference.”

Let’s cycle for care, compassion, and community. Together, we can make a difference!

Taking place from Sunday, June 7th to Saturday 13th, you can sign up for this year’s 7-day cycle fundraiser right here. You can also find out more about the trip here, and about Purple House over here.