ONLINE INFORMATION EVENING, MAY 21ST 2026, 7:00PM REGISTER HERE
Ride Shoulder to Shoulder with Irish International Cyclist Nicholas Roche
from Madrid to Bilbao in Spain
Sunday 7th June to Saturday 13th June 2026
Join Purple House and Nicholas Roche for the 10th anniversary of our annual fundraising cycle challenge and
help to provide vital support services to families living with cancer.
‘I’m Nicholas Roche, and I’m asking you to join me on the Purple House Cancer Support Madrid to Bilbao Cycle, from 7–13 June 2026.
This journey is about more than the miles we cover; it’s about standing with families in Ireland who are living with the fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak that cancer brings.
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. Sign up today!’
REGISTER HERE
Places are limited for this unique experience with Irish cycling legend Nicolas Roche who wrapped up an incredible pro career with 12 victories, including four national titles and stage wins at the Vuelta e Espana in 2013 & 2015. He completed 22 Grand Tours and earned 65 top‑10 stage finishes , 43 of them at the Vuelta alone.
Roche also represented Ireland on the world stage time and time again, racing in four Olympic Games (2008–2020) and eleven World Championships. What a legacy!
(Nicholas Roche will cycle for two days out of the five days, and will join participants for two evening meals where he will share stories of his cycling career)
Day 1 – Sunday 7th June – Arrival
Direct Ryanair flight* departs Dublin at 8:00 AM, arriving in Madrid at 1:00 PM.
Upon arrival, enjoy 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.
REGISTER HERE
Day 2 – Monday 8th June
Madrid to Segovia (101kms/1404m)
Madrid may be a bustling capital, but it offers an impressive cycling network.
Its most famous route, the Anillo Verde Ciclista, forms a scenic loop around the city and provides 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.
REGISTER HERE
Day 3 – Tuesday 9th June
Segovia to Penafiel (114km/872m) or (143km/1441m)
Today’s ride begins 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.
REGISTER HERE
Day 4 – Wednesday June 10th
Penafiel to Burgos (115km/945m) or (118km/1075m)
Today is all about the open road. Vast, unspoiled landscapes stretch out before you, with few towns and even fewer cars—a cyclist’s dream.
Along the way, stop in Lerma, a historic town perched on a strategic hill above the Arlanza River. Built before Roman times, Lerma is the perfect lunch spot, where you can sample its famous “asados” (traditional roasts).
Our destination is Burgos, once the capital of the unified Kingdom of Castille for five centuries. This city is steeped in history, boasting remarkable monuments and cultural treasures. Its crown jewel is the UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral, a masterpiece of architecture and the resting place of the legendary El Cid.
Optional Extra: For those seeking an extra challenge, take the short climb to the Mirador at the Castillo, where panoramic views of Burgos await.
Day 5 – Thursday 11th June
Burgos to Haro (112kms / 885m) or (130km/1375m)
Leaving Burgos, we follow a gentle riverside bike path along the Río Vena, making for an easy and scenic exit from the city.
At 865m altitude, today’s route offers more descent than ascent, but the first 20km include a gradual climb to the day’s highest point—over 1,000m at the Mirador de Santa Casilda.
Here, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
From there, a series of exhilarating downhills leads into the Obarenes–Sierra de Cantabria, a striking mountain range known for its jagged rock formations, lush forests, and panoramic vistas.
Our destination is Haro, a picturesque village celebrated as the birthplace of Rioja wines—a perfect spot to relax and soak in the region’s rich heritage.
Optional Extra: Extend your ride to explore the Parque Natural de Montes Obarenes–San Zadornil, nestled in the last foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains.
This protected area offers spectacular scenery and incredible biodiversity, including wild boar, mink, bearded vultures, and even wild cats.
REGISTER HERE
Day 6 – Friday June 12th
Haro to Bilbao (115km/1215m)
Today’s route begins with a gentle ride along the banks of the Ebro River, passing through the charming town of Miranda.
Crossing the river marks your entry into Basque Country—and with it, slightly more challenging terrain.
Over the next 25 km, you’ll climb 525 m to reach the lofty Mirador Puerto de Orduña at 900 m, where spectacular views await.
After soaking in the panorama, prepare for an exhilarating descent.
Aside from a couple of short climbs, the route is predominantly downhill, following the Cadagua River all the way into vibrant Bilbao—a perfect finale to your cycling adventure.
REGISTER HERE
Day 8 – Saturday June 13th
Departure
A short transfer for the 18.10 Aer Lingus flight* back to Dublin.
REGISTER HERE
Price: €1,705 per person twin room sharing (single rooms limited and supplement details to follow)
Includes:
6 x Night accommodation in 3/4 star Hotels
• 6 x Dinner
• 5 x Lunch
• Guided cycles on fully researched routes – cycling guides (approx. 1 per 10 participants).
Cycle with Nicholas Roche x 2 Days
• Transportation of bikes to/from Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
• Support van with driver/spares and snacks
• Transportation of luggage
• On road snacks
• One set transfer from Madrid Airport to City Hotel
• One set transfer to Bilbao Airport at the tour end
Included in your Purple House fundraising pack:
Full Zip Tour Jersey (Sponsored by Zurich)
Off bike Tech Tee Shirt
Cycling Bandana
Fundraising for Purple House Cancer Support is in addition to the above costs.
After you register, Purple House will be in contact with you to help you with your fundraising efforts.
A deposit of 300 Euro confirms your place.
*Flights organised and paid for by cyclist.
Join our 10th
Annual Fundraising Cycle!
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST HERE
