Trip Overview
The ultimate UK challenge — summit Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours. The National 3 Peaks Challenge is Britain's most famous endurance event, combining the highest peaks in Scotland (1,345m), England (978m), and Wales (1,085m) with overnight driving between mountains. Starting at Ben Nevis, the challenge moves south through the night to Scafell Pike, then on to Snowdon for the final ascent. The combination of altitude, sleep deprivation, cumulative fatigue, and demanding mountain terrain makes this one of the toughest challenges in the UK. Over 30,000 people attempt it each year — and a significant number don't finish.
Who is this for?
An extreme endurance challenge. You need to be fit enough to climb three mountains in 24 hours while sleep-deprived. Prior mountain experience is essential. The driving between peaks provides rest but you'll be walking through the night on at least one peak.
Itinerary
All timings are approximate and subject to conditions.
We depart central London early morning, cycling south through the iconic Surrey Hills — one of the UK's most loved cycling routes. Expect stunning countryside, rolling climbs, and a celebratory lunch stop before the afternoon push to Newhaven. Ferry crossing to Dieppe in the evening.
- Overnight: Hotel in Dieppe (dinner included)
- Distance: ~105km | Elevation: ~1,200m
- Support vehicle available throughout
The longest and most scenic day. Normandy's gentle countryside gives way to forest roads and river valleys as you push south-east toward Beauvais. Energy station stops every 25–30km. Evening hotel and team dinner.
- Overnight: Hotel in Beauvais (dinner included)
- Distance: ~120km | Elevation: ~900m
- Mechanical support throughout
The iconic finish. Lighter legs for a shorter day as you head straight into the French capital. We cross the Périphérique together as a group and ride the final miles along the Champs-Élysées, finishing at the Eiffel Tower. Celebration drinks and medal ceremony at the finish line.
- Finish: Trocadéro, Paris (Eiffel Tower backdrop)
- Distance: ~75km | Elevation: ~400m
- Evening celebration meal (optional add-on)
Route Map
Elevation Profile
Total Ascent
3,020 m+
Total Distance
37 km
What's Included
Included
- Expert cycling guides throughout
- Full mechanical support vehicle
- 2 nights accommodation (twin share)
- All breakfasts and dinners
- Energy station snacks & drinks
- Luggage transfers each day
- Finisher medal & certificate
- Route GPS files & digital maps
Not Included
- Flights or Eurostar travel
- Bike hire (available as add-on)
- Travel insurance
- Lunches (purchased on route)
- Personal spending money
- Single room supplement
Common Questions
Gallery
Photos from past participants. Your adventure awaits!
National 3 Peaks — Participant Stories
"Just on the train home from Bordeaux after the most incredible ride experience from Paris to Bordeaux. Wayne and Mike deserve a huge amount of credit, they've been fantastic."
Harriett Busby
Google Review
"This was my first time cycling with Adventure Cafe; first time riding from London to Paris and my first time riding this sort of distance over 3 days. Lots of preparation had gone into this from AC prior to departing London."
Melv
Google Review · National 3 Peaks
