It’s only right that a couple of times per year you get the chance to sit back, relax, switch off and just unwind from the day to day rigours known as life. I think this time is known as a holiday.

holi•day (häl′ə dā′)

noun

1. A period of freedom from labor, set aside for leisure and recreation.

2. The time to conquer the mountains of your dreams.

Whilst most folk are happy to head to the sun and a beach on the Med, that’s just not doing it for me. Admittedly I tried it once but after less than an hour spent sun bathing I’d had enough and went to try and find a bike rental station.

The week from August 16-22nd was all about one thing. Ultimately it was a time to conquer some of the most iconic mountains in Europe. Mountains that I’d dreamt of for too long. Mountains that I wanted to make mine. The Stelvio, Mortirolo, Gavia in Lombardia. Fedaia, Pordoi, Giau & Gardena in Trentino and the Großglockner pass in Austria.

It was an ambitious schedule, covering three separate regions in one week, but I wasn’t alone. Friend and intrepid ride partner Paul Whitfield was on board and with one rule of the road "don’t start something you can’t finish" we were all but set.

Over the next few days I’ll be documenting how the trip went. Were the mountains tamed or did they prove too much? And of course, the question on everyone's lips will be answered. Where did we find the best panini!?