Starting off straight after breakfast you will find the route very close to your hotel. For those starting from Appleby there is a very good refreshment stop at Melmerby. After the two routes join, you are soon beginning to climb up Hartside - yes, you do have to cross over the Pennines on this ride and this is the highest climb on the route, rewarded with a long downhill into Alston for your second overnight stay at The Hillcrest Hotel. A special menu will be prepared for you.