Peter Varley-Best 🇯🇪

Tell us about this ride collection and why you chose these routes?

I decided on these eight rides as they are the ones I enjoy cycling the most on Jersey. I think Jersey has such a stunning coastline and beautiful countryside , especially considering it is an island only 9×5 miles. I hope there is enough variety to cater for all tastes and for cyclists of all abilities and that these rides give a flavour of what Jersey has to offer.
What’s your favourite ride to do in the real world?

To be perfectly honest, my favourite ride is to go around the coastline of Jersey. On a clear day, you have wonderful views of our neighbouring Islands; Guernsey, Sark, Herm and Alderney and views across the channel to the coast of France which is only 14 miles away. The sweeping dunes, patchwork fields, towering cliffs and unspoilt beaches make for a remarkable ride and I feel extremely fortunate to cycle on this Island.
Favourite FulGaz ride & why?

I simply cannot choose between the following two rides!

Lookout Mountain, Golden, Colorado. – – The winding road, starting in the historic town of Golden, and then heading up Lookout Mountain is very scenic. Wonderful views wherever you look- either The Rocky Mountains, or the expanse of The Great Plains. The final descent back to the city of Golden is breathtaking.

Going To The Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana. – – I love the feeling of being in the wilderness as the mountains open up on the way to Logan Pass. The view of the Weeping Wall, near the end of the ride, is incredible.
How did you start filming rides for FulGaz?

During Lockdown I bought a smart trainer. I quickly discovered FulGaz and I really enjoyed the realistic and stunning virtual rides that I could cycle at any time, anywhere in the world. I love cycling in Jersey and thought it would be great if I could share a few rides around Jersey with the FulGaz community. I am really grateful to FulGaz for loaning me the filming equipment, and for all the support they have given me.
Favourite cycling memory?

Cycling from Rome to London, with my lovely wife Jill, in August 1988. 1,418 miles (2,282km) at an average of 50 miles (80km) a day. We carried everything, including tents and sleeping bags & food & water! We climbed 9 recognised mountain cols with several very fast descents. On one climb we were asked by a pair of inquisitive Dutch cyclists, “Do you do special training for this?” we roared with laughter as we replied ‘No, we haven’t done any!” This is our abiding memory of the trip.
Any other random facts you’d like to add?

Having to try and remember everything for a ride is becoming harder as I get older. Helmet, glasses, pump, water bottle, snacks, tools, puncture repair kit, spare inner tube, waterproofs, jacket, gloves, phone, lights, mudguards… the list is endless. Then…remembering to charge your Di2, lights, bike computer etc is another matter entirely!! It can be a lengthy process getting on the road! And then I have to remember where I’m going!

You can find Peter’s rides by searching “Jersey” in FulGaz, don’t forget to follow him on Strava.