Challenge Ride 6: Malham and Littondale

The majesty of Malham Cove looks out over the Village of Malham and has been attracting visitors for centuries. For cyclists, it just happens that a classic road climb runs up the left hand side of the Cove. We have blended a visit to Malham with a loop back through the untouched gem Littondale, the hidden valley. To start with, the ride skirts up the Wharfe valley and then through the Calendar Girls village of Rhylstone to Malham. The reward for reaching the top of the climb is sight of the impressive world famous limestone pavements. After crossing the bleak moor you descend to Settle for the café stop. After the welcome break you join the route of the famous ‘Etape du Dales’ and climb out of Stainforth past Pen-y-Ghent, one of the 3 Peaks of Yorskshire visited by the iconic cyclo cross race. A treat is now in store as the scenery to your right on the descent is majestic as you enter Littondale. You soon reach Wharfedale and head past Kilnsey Crag. To make this is a triple climb ride, the punchy ‘Langbar’ awaits near the finish, although those with tired legs can easily miss this out if they wish.